Matthew Primus says being appointed coach of his beloved AFL club Port Adelaide realises a long-held ambition.

The ex-Power captain on Thursday was announced as Port's coach for next three seasons.

Primus pipped Fremantle assistant coach Chris Scott for the position vacated by Mark Williams in July this year.

The 35-year-old was Port's caretaker coach for the final seven games of their season, posting five wins in an audition which strengthened his claims for the top job.

"It has been a dream of mine to one day coach this great club," Primus said.

"I am thrilled and would like to sincerely thank the club for the opportunity.

"I believe we have a really exciting playing list and there are so many exciting things happening off-field too, its just a great time to get this opportunity and I look forward to taking it with both hands."

Port president Brett Duncanson said he expected Primus, the unanimous recommendation of a six-member sub-committee charged with finding a new coach, to lead Port beyond his initial three-year term.

"Matt has outstanding Port Adelaide heritage, but that was not a deciding factor in his appointment," Duncanson said.

"He was the best candidate pure and simple at the end of a very demanding and competitive selection process.

"He knows the Port Adelaide footy club, but has already shown he is prepared to make hard decisions."

Primus' AFL playing career began with Fitzroy in their final AFL season, placing second in their best and fairest.

The ruckman then crossed to Port Adelaide, where he established himself as a premier ruckman in the competition, winning two All Australian jumpers.

Primus was named Power captain in 2001 and rapidly gained a reputation as a sterling leader.

But Primus missed Port's sole AFL premiership in 2004 when sidelined by a knee reconstruction.

His returned to action the following year but was again cruelled by injury, needing another knee reconstruction late in the season - which prompted his retirement.

Primus remained at Port as their ruck coach until Williams' departure.

He will be Port's third senior coach since their AFL inception in 1997, following Williams and inaugural coach John Cahill.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP