SOUTH Croydon has kept faith with Damien Franken announcing him as its senior coach for the Eastern Football League 2013 season.
Franken became the acting coach when the club parted ways with Ben Delarue late last season.
He led the side clear of bottom place so it could retain its spot in division 1.
Franken planned to consider whether he would apply for position in 2013, before last week taking on the role.
Bulldogs president Stephen Quon praised Franken as the man to lead the club to division 1 prominence.
"After taking over as caretaker coach of our club for the final six games of last season he demonstrated all the great qualities we value at South Croydon," Quon said.
"He has certainly earned his position as senior coach.
"Damien is a local product who lives within our community and fully understands what makes our club tick.
Quon said he rated Franken as "extremely hard working, well organised" and said that he plans meticulously and is a great communicator.
"I have no doubt he will raise the bar high and we will be a much improved club under his stewardship," Quon said.
"The South Croydon Football Club has done well over the past three years to survive and acclimatise to division 1 football.
"It is now time we move up the ladder and become a feared opponent to all we play against."
The Bulldogs will begin preseason training on November 12 at Yarra Hills (Pembroke) Secondary College, Mooroolbark, at 6pm on November 12.