Bohs boss Keith Long has backed Derek Pender to thrive in his first managerial role after the former Gypsies defender took charge of the club's Under-17s.
Pender hung up his boots last October after a 17-year playing career in the League of Ireland, scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot against Sligo Rovers in a fairytale Dalymount Park farewell.
He now takes his first steps into coaching at the helm of the Bohs-St Kevin's Boys amalgamation that competes in the SSE Airtricity Under-17 Northern Elite Division.
Pender will be assisted by Rory Kirk, older brother of Bohs full-back Paddy.
"It's a great opportunity for Derek to cut his teeth in coaching," said Long.
"But it's a huge opportunity for young players to learn from one of the most experienced and professional players in the league too.
"He will need time to implement his ideas and he will be ably assisted by Rory, who is a very respected with St Kevin's."
Gavin Teehan takes over the Under-19s from Craig Sexton, who stepped away at the end of last season.
Bohs have earned a formidable reputation for nurturing talent through their underage structures in recent years.
The likes of Andy Lyons, Danny Grant, Ross Tierney, Ryan Graydon and Dawson Devoy have all made the step up to first-team football over the past three seasons, with Warren O'Hora - now with Brighton - and Ali Reghba, who joined Leicester City last summer, other notable graduates.
