Former representative centre Michael De Vere will join Brisbane's coaching ranks next season, adding to incoming coach Ivan Henjak's already impressive support staff.

De Vere, one of only two players to score 1,000 points for Brisbane, will link with former teammates Allan Langer, Shane Webcke, Peter Ryan and Paul Green as Henjak's hired help.

His appointment as Henjak's fifth specialist assistant coach keeps the "old boys" theme going after greats Langer and Webcke, who played more than 500 NRL games for Brisbane between them, signed on for duty last week.

De Vere, still fit enough to be playing, got his start with Brisbane after writing a letter to Bennett when he was with the St George club.

Bennett often describes De Vere as one of the most dedicated players he'd coached in his 21 seasons at the club.

Not blessed with the natural brilliance of some of his Broncos teammates, De Vere endeared himself to Bennett with his commitment, discipline and determination to do everything to the best of his ability.

"Obviously you've got to have a bit of ability but there were guys more talented than me," De Vere admitted.

"My strength was that I always had a good attitude and a good work ethic and was prepared to work harder than other guys and never give up.

"There were plenty of times when I could have said it was too hard but didn't.

"They're the qualities of having a good work ethic and attitude and never giving up which is what I can teach the new players.

"That's why I want to remain part of the club.

"I love the Broncos and I care about the club.

"They've got such a good recruitment and development program that the talent will always be there.

De Vere, who played 170 games for Brisbane, has learned from several top coaches including Phil Gould, Graham Murray, Chris Anderson and Bennett.

He left Brisbane at the end of 2004 with 1,082 points (64 tries and 413 goals) having played State of Origin for NSW and represented Australia in 2003-2004.

"I always wanted to get into coaching and after two years as Brisbane's coaching and development officer I feel the time is right," he said.

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