Sydney Swans specialist ruck coach Stephen Taubert has decided to call an end to his coaching career.

It’s been an incredible journey for Taubert, who started his playing career with Richmond in 1974, before moving to Essendon and finally the Swans eight years later.

The ruckman finished fourth in the Brownlow Medal in 1984, and later that year announced his retirement from the game.

The larger-than-life character returned to Sydney as a specialist ruck coach in 1999, a position he’s held part-time ever since.

Over the journey, Taubert has worked with some of the competition’s pre-eminent ruckmen, including the likes of Darren Jolly, Greg Stafford, Jason Ball and Shane Mumford.

While he’s helped turn many tall, raw and scrawny draftees into stars, arguably, Taubert’s finest effort was helping to transform an international Canadian rugby player – Mike Pyke – into a premiership winning AFL ruckman.

The man who was once dubbed ‘the ruck whisperer’ says it’s been a great ride but the time has come to hang up the coaches’ whistle.

“The Swans have been part of my life since 1982 when the club first moved to Sydney and over that time I’ve just had the most incredible journey,” Taubert said.

“I’ve been able to work with some amazing people from all of the coaches, players and support staff.

“I’ve made enduring friendships, been part of five grand finals and multiple finals series but the time has come for someone else to hold the ruck bag.

“I’ve been lucky enough to be able to keep in touch with the majority of players I worked with over the years and I look forward to watching the current Swans ruckmen continue to develop and fulfil their potential.”

Sydney Swans coach John Longmire thanked Taubert for his contribution.

“Stephen has been a great servant of this football club who has helped a number of ruckmen over his journey,” Longmire said.

“He has spent an incredible amount of hours here for a part-time employee, building up a number of strong relationships both on and off the field.

“We thank Stephen for his contribution over many years and wish him all the best for the future.”