After a cruel end to the 2021 season, Josh Bruce turned his attention to following his passion.

Coaching had always been something on the tall forward’s radar, and time has afforded the 29-year-old the chance to work with the Bulldogs’ AFLW side.

In October, Bruce became a Development Coach within the program and key forward Izzy Huntington couldn’t be happier with his immediate impact.

“Brucey has been great for me in particular – a key forward and similar player to me,” Huntington told 7 News.

Bruce enters the coaching caper with many years left in his AFL career, discovering the nuances associated with not being out on the field.

“I am looking to play for a few years yet,” Bruce said.

“Definitely not the writing on the wall or anything, I am just dipping the toe in the water to see if I am enjoying coaching and so far, so good.

“You’re powerless (as a coach). You say a few words and you go let them play, you have no control over it really.

“When you’re on the field you can actually do something about the outcome.”

As for 2022 ambitions, Bruce is aiming to be back in the red, white and blue by late next year.

“Rehab is going well,” he said. “I have been running on the AlterG treadmill and aiming towards finals next year if I can get a spot in the team.”