South Sydney have appointed David Kidwell as their under-20s coach for next season.

The former Melbourne Storm forward will take over the role from Daniel Irvine, who has stepped down due to other work commitments.

Kidwell finished his playing career at Souths this year and says he is looking forward to moving into coaching.

"I'm really looking forward to working with the young players we have at the Rabbitohs and helping them to develop into future NRL stars for the club," Kidwell said in a statement.

"It's important to prepare these players for the step up into the NRL as best we can and I'm looking forward to that challenge.

"I'm glad that I can stay involved with South Sydney and rugby league, and put something back into the game now that my playing days are behind me."

Kidwell, who also played for Adelaide, Parramatta and the Sydney Roosters during his career, made 25 Test appearances for New Zealand and was a member of last year's World Cup winning squad.

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