Back in the Game: Laidley’s Aspirations for a Footy Comeback

Exclusive Sport AFL AFL 2023 ‘I would love to coach again’: Laidley’s dreams for her footy future

By Marnie Vinall | September 18, 2023 — 6.16pm

Former AFL coach Danielle Laidley has expressed her interest in returning to coaching, but this time in the AFLW (AFL Women’s), rather than the men’s competition. Laidley, who coached 149 AFL games at North Melbourne between 2003 and 2009, has a passion for the women’s game and local footy.

The Journey of Danielle Laidley

Danielle Laidley had a remarkable coaching career in the AFL. She started as an assistant coach under Mick Malthouse at Collingwood, which included a grand final loss in 2002. She then went on to coach North Melbourne, leading the team to a preliminary final in 2007. Laidley also had coaching stints at Port Adelaide, St Kilda, and Carlton. Her coaching record speaks for itself, but it is her resilience and determination that truly set her apart.

Last year, Laidley released her memoir “Don’t Look Away,” which gave readers an intimate look into her life. Concurrently, a documentary titled “Revealed – Danielle Laidley: Two Tribes” was produced, shedding light on the challenges she faced while hiding her true self in the AFL spotlight and her battles with gender dysphoria, substance abuse, and mental health. These experiences have shaped her perspective and propelled her desire to help others who may be going through similar struggles.

A Return to Coaching

Now, with the documentary completed, Laidley is ready to embark on her next chapter. She has set her sights on coaching in the AFLW and is excited about the potential of the women’s game. Laidley has been an ardent supporter of the AFLW since its inception and believes that the full impact of the competition will be seen when the young girls who have been playing structured football from a young age start to enter the league.

She lauds the rawness and competitiveness of the AFLW, noting that the players support each other in a way that is sometimes lacking in the men’s game. Laidley sees immense potential in the next generation of AFLW players and hopes to be a part of nurturing their talent.

Breaking Barriers and Making a Difference

Laidley‘s journey has not been without its challenges. In May 2020, she was arrested for stalking and drug possession, which led to her personal struggles being exposed in a brutal and public manner. Despite this setback, Laidley remains resilient and determined to take control of her own story.

Her involvement in the documentary and her openness about her experiences are her way of reclaiming her narrative and helping others who may be facing similar challenges. Laidley acknowledges that she has received an incredible amount of support from the AFL community, including CEO Gillon McLachlan and former players she coached. Now, she wants to pay it forward and help break down barriers for the transgender community.

With a desire to create a more inclusive and accepting society, Laidley hopes that her story can inspire the next generation to live authentically and embrace who they are. She believes that by challenging norms and fostering understanding, we can create a better world for everyone.

As Laidley embarks on her coaching journey in the AFLW, her passion and dedication to the game will undoubtedly have a positive impact. It is individuals like her who continue to push boundaries and pave the way for a more inclusive future in sport and society as a whole.