Johns, formerly a star full-forward, won eight senior football premierships with Horsham between 2003 and 2010.

Johns said his appointment at the Saints would allow him to pursue a dream of coaching senior football.

"It was a perfect fit. The opportunity came up and it's something I've been thinking about for a while - more so over the past couple of years," Johns said.

"I think the Saints have a good, young, developing list. There's a lot to work with down there and there's a lot of room for improvement.

"All four football grades were in finals last season, so they are in a really good spot.

"It's exciting to be a part of, and hopefully we can have some success in 2020."

After spending most of his playing career with the Horsham Demons, Johns admitted his move to the Saints might raise some eyebrows.

But he said the rivalry between the two Horsham-based clubs did not impact his decision.

"I can understand people's shock ... but for me it's just about the opportunity to coach a senior side," Johns said.

"The rivalry when you're playing is obviously something pretty big, but I haven't played now for six years. So for me, it's pretty much a non-issue.

"Obviously, some people might find that a little bit hard to swallow - but at the end of the day, I wanted to have a crack at senior coaching, whether that was at the Saints or anywhere else."

Johns said outgoing coach Luke Fisher was a chance to remain at the club as a player.

"He hasn't indicated either way at this stage," Johns said.

"He has some work commitments over the next month, but we'll be sitting down with him in late October or early November.

"I'm more than happy for him to stay and play, because he is obviously a very good quality player within the Wimmera league."

Johns said he was hopeful of retaining most of the Saints' playing list from 2019.

"The club announced it to the players on the weekend and by all reports, it has been positively received by everyone at the club - including the playing group," Johns said.

"I'm actually meeting with the players tonight (Tuesday) for the first time, but by all reports everyone will be hanging around."

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox twice weekly from the Wimmera Mail-Times. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the Wimmera, sign up below.