Couch, who relinquished his roles at UTAS Stadium after winning last year’s State League premiership, will “ play as many games as possible” Northern Bombers president Thane Brady said on Tuesday.

The respected leader quit his playing-assistant coach position with VFL side Casey Demons to take up a full-time high performance strength and conditioning position with Tennis Australia. Brady said Couch, 29, will be based in Melbourne and wants to play at least one match with his brother in Victoria.

“We sought in-principle approval from AFL Tasmania based on Tom's circumstances of remaining a contracted player of ours and already being registered with the TSL, therefore, he should remain eligible to play,” Brady said.

“Approval from AFL Tas was granted and when Tom returns from the USA we will confirm games he can play and release to the public.”

Brady said the ex-Melbourne midfielder and coach Taylor Whitford were close with Couch mentoring the ex-North skipper last season.

“Players of Tom’s ability, experience and leadership are hard to attract to Tasmania,” Brady said.

“When Tom reluctantly left our club for job opportunities in Melbourne he stated he will always be a North Launceston person and how much he loved our environment.

“This commitment of Tom’s clearly demonstrates he is a man of his word as he is turning his back on big money pay days to continue his association with his teammates and our club’s family.”