He played his last premier game for University A last year.
Huch has been player-coach for the Otago Samoan team and for Varsity B but this will be his first time as head coach.
Green Island has lost rampaging loose forward Mika Mafi and Otago lock Jackson Hemopo to Southern, and halfback Dean Moeahu has retired after playing 221 premier games.
Notable recruits are Samoan under-20 players Tony Keresoma (prop) and Tala Fagasoaia (halfback), and midfield back Pasko Ivancic, who played for Croatia last year. Lively loose forward Frankie Elisara has returned.
The goal kicker is first five-eighth Brady Page, who played for Auckland age group teams before coming to Otago.
Last year: Ninth.
Coaches: Motu Huch (first year), John Leslie and Dean Moeahu (part-time assistant coaches).
Gains: Tony Keresoma (Auckland), Tala Fagasoaia (Harbour), Fapene Popoali'i (Wellington), Pasco Ivancic (Croatia), Frankie Elisara (return), Brady Page (University).
Losses: Mika Mafi (Southern), Jackson Hemopo (Southern), Mike Moeahu (retired).
Key players: Halfback Tala Fagasoaia, midfielder Fapene Popoalii, loose forward Frankie Elisara.
Squad.-
Forwards: Jamie Waller (captain), Terry Gough, Richard Te Nahu, Tony Keresoma, Tim Tawaketini, Sam Smith, Frankie Elisara, Ben Lang, Matt McCutcheon, Luke Johnston, Mike Jopson, Simon Tupu, Hamish Finnie, Mike Quigley.
Backs: Roma Sefo (vice-captain), Stu Turner, Tala Fagasoaia, Shane McNoe, Brady Page, Pasko Ivancic, Fapene Popoali'i, Sam Eriepa, James Spooner, Sofele Tuiganala, Jared Fahey, Hayden McBride, Chris Guild.
