The announcement followed a club meeting on Monday night during which a confirmation of the decision was made.

Club vice president Frank Millemaggi said that although Alampi had been identified as their desired coach late last year, he wanted to ensure all club stakeholders knew of the change before it was unveiled publicly.

“We got everyone together for a meeting on Monday night and we just wanted to make sure everyone knew about it and was on board, which they were,” Millemaggi said.

“We actually had it worked out a few months ago and we think Frank will be great.

“He’s coached the side before and he’s played for the club for a fair few years as well.

“So it’s good that he’s come back in to take over from Mick (Doolin).”

Former coach Doolin quietly moved on during the aftermath of Leeton’s elimination final loss to eventual grand finalists Young Lions and canvassed both Alampi and long-time club servant Joe Trifogli as potential successors.

Under Doolin, Leeton finished fifth on the Pascoe Cup ladder with nine wins, seven losses and two draws last year while star striker Anthony Trifogli drew plenty of praise for his breakout season.

Doolin failed to find a premiership during his three year stint but sowed the seeds for future success through a string of elimination final and semi final appearances.

Despite the coaching shift, Millemaggi remains confident the side can stretch its strong September run under the leadership of Alampi and returning captain Joey Fondecaro.

“I guess it’s up to Frank and the crew but I think Joey will lead the guys again,” Mallemaggi said

“Joey’s been a real leader for the past two or three years and he gets the job done out there for us.”

Fondecaro will be hoping to shrug off his niggling injury concerns after a haphazard 2018 season. 

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