Spirovski, who last played with the Sebastopol Vikings at state league level, takes over the role from Nick Bearham.

"Being both a player and coach at Ballarat City, it has always been a club I have been proud to be a part of and I really appreciate the opportunity to play a larger role in the development of our youth players," Spirovski, 23, said.

"Youth football and development is something I am extremely passionate about and to be able to impact that at this club is special to me."

Laura Brady, the club's director of football operations, said Spirovski's elevation to the role was recognition of the commitment he had shown the youth development program at City.

"He has had several significant roles and has had experience at coaching all age groups from Miniroos right through to the under-20s," Brady said.

"Jason has also worked as an assistant in the senior men's program. This broad range of experience provides Jason with a unique insight into where our junior players come from, through to what it takes for them to become successful senior players.

"Jason has also amassed experience beyond the club through his work with both Western United and the FV Talent Identification program.

"We have come to know Jason as a tireless worker who combines passion and enthusiasm with meticulous attention to detail, traits which are pivotal in accelerating the development of our junior players."

Ballarat City chairman David Sproules said it was an exciting appointment for the club.

"We're very excited with this important appointment for the club, a key role, which enables us to commence planning for the 2021 season and to appoint the remaining key junior coaching roles," he said.

"Jason is a Ballarat City person and we are proud to have him in this vital role for our football club. Having experienced a difficult 2020, with COVID-19, everyone at the club is keen to returning to play and looking forward to an exciting season 2021 for Ballarat City FC."