Dean Laidley offered ‘groundswell’ of support from former teammates and AFL Coaches Association

Dean Laidley has received a “groundswell” of support from former North Melbourne teammates as the former Roos coach prepares to front court to face several charges including stalking.

AFL Coaches Association CEO Mark Brayshaw visibly upset as he addresses the media about the death of Adelaide Crows coach, Phil Walsh at AFLCA head office in Albert Park. Picture: Sarah Matray

A group of prominent North Melbourne past players and AFL industry figures have united to offer support to troubled former player and coach Dean Laidley.

Laidley was arrested on stalking and other charges in St Kilda last Saturday night and did not seek bail.

He is expected to front court on May 11.

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It’s understood those closest to the 53-year-old have convinced him of the need to accept professional help at a mental health facility if he is to be bailed next week.

Chief executive of the AFL Coaches Association Mark Brayshaw confirmed to the Herald Sun a group was working on providing assistance to Laidley and his family.

That could take the form of financial support for the professional treatment the 1996 premiership player could require during his rehabilitation.

“There’s no question about it,” Brayshaw said when asked if the Kangaroos and West Coast past players groups as well as the AFLCA and AFL Players Association were trying to assist Laidley through the difficult road ahead.

“The group is asking where to from here, and none of us really know.

“The first bit was to pass on through his lawyer that he is not alone. We are with him and the next step after that is how we can help.”

Dean Laidley, Wayne Schwass and Anthony Stevens celebrate North Melbourne’s 1996 premiership win.

Victoria Police has suspended two officers over the alleged leaking of photos of Laidley wearing a blonde wig and make up taken from inside the station.

Brayshaw stressed the support for Laidley wasn’t “an unconditional blokey thing” in the light of the serious charges that he faces and others who may have been affected who could also require assistance.

Former Roos coach Dean Laidley is expected to front court on May 11.

“It is an accurate summary to say there is a groundswell of support for (Laidley) him in response to the photographs that found their way out of the police station and the rumours and innuendo that accompanied that,” Brayshaw said.

“It is a guy who has been shamed and humiliated and who is going to need to get his way out of this.

“First and foremost, he has got to deal with the charges.”

AFL Coaches Association boss Mark Brayshaw has thrown his support behind Dean Laidley.

Among those offering support include Laidley’s premiership teammates in Anthony Stevens (who is president of the North Melbourne past players and officials association) and Darren Crocker (who is vice-president).

West Coast coach Adam Simpson, another former teammate, said he was concerned.

“It’s hard to know what’s transpired. On face value, my immediate concerns go to Dean, his family and the people impacted by his actions,” he told Sportsday radio.

Brayshaw also played at North Melbourne and is a former director at the club.

Former West Coast players have also offered their support to the group.

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Originally published as Dean Laidley offered ‘groundswell’ of support from former teammates and AFL Coaches Association