Buckenara has a vast amount of experience working both in the AFL and VFL in coaching, list management, recruiting and general manager roles.

Most notably, Buckenara recently completed a stint as a Hawthorn recruiter and played a pivotal role in building their triple-premiership dynasty.

He also coached the Sydney Swans over two seasons in the early 1990s.

The Dolphins are in desperate need of that kind of experience as they brace themselves for a season in the wilderness after being kicked out of the VFL late last year due to grave financial issues – ending their 51-year association with the competition.

Frankston joined the then-VFA in 1966 after leaving the Mornington Peninsula Football League.

The stand-alone Dolphins struggled in their last few years, with only six wins in the previous three seasons – including a winless 2015 campaign – and back-to-back wooden spoons.

Buckenara said he was looking forward to his new role.

"I am excited about the challenge ahead and see it as the opportunity to join the Frankston FC team as we make our run back into the VFL competition," he said.

"AFL Victoria have left the door open for Frankston to apply to re-enter the competition in 2018 and I see my appointment as a major step in rebuilding the club.

"Frankston FC has helped to develop many AFL greats including last year's premiership coach Luke Beveridge and Bulldog premiership players Matthew Boyd and Tory Dickson and I want Frankston to once again become a pathway for VFL and AFL talent.

"We represent the Mornington Peninsula which has produced champions such as John Coleman, Leigh Matthews and Dermott Brereton. The Peninsula is full of a next generation of talent and Frankston can once again be a legitimate pathway for that talent to reach VFL and AFL heights."

Buckenara said the club was encouraged by the support already shown by the football community for Frankston, but stressed that long-term support was required if the Dolphins were to have a sustainable future.

"One thing I know from my days at Hawthorn is that no one person can do it alone. We want the community to stand with us and support our work to re-build the club," Buckenara said.

"One of my first tasks is to get supporters and sponsors involved and to build a membership culture."

Buckenara was also a champion player, with 154 games and 293 goals to his credit with the Hawks over nine seasons, including four premierships. The 58-year-old is also a member of the Hawks' Team of the Century.