Fremantle's new defensive coach Jade Rawlings has shared a humorous story about one of his first encounters with senior coach Justin Longmuir during their playing days in 2002.

The pair prepare to work together in the upcoming 2025 AFL season after Rawlings joined the Club from Norwood at the conclusion of the 2024 season.

"I'll go back a bit further, unfortunately I've got a past with him where he gave me a real spanking at Subiaco one day when I was playing on him,” Rawlings chuckled during his Wednesday morning chat with Adam Papalia on 6PR.

“He's got that one over me which I don't really like!"

The game in question, a dominating 61-point win for Fremantle over the Hawks as Longmuir ran wild with 19 disposals, 13 marks and three goals.

Despite this initial on-field rivalry, Rawlings and Longmuir's relationship has evolved significantly over the years. The pair first connected off the field during an AFL level four coaching course in 2019.

"We struck up a good relationship," Rawlings noted.

“It went for over 18 months…we stayed in touch over the past few years and occasionally crossed paths.

“I’ve got great regard for him as a person, and I really respect his coaching.”

The newly appointed coach praised Longmuir’s work over the past few years and proclaimed his belief that the Club is ready to take on 2025.

"I think the work we've seen him (Longmuir) put in has put the Club and the playing group in a great position to launch into 2025 and beyond,” Rawlings said.

Rawlings emphasised the strength of their relationship as the pair begin their collaboration of work ahead of the new season.

"I genuinely enjoy his company, but I see him as a serious coach, and I think we're lucky to have him,” he concluded.