Laidley Concerned For Retired Hay

The Sunday Age

Sunday February 25, 2007

ANDREW STAFFORD

KANGAROOS coach Dean Laidley has expressed sympathy and concern for Jonathan Hay, saying the club's efforts must be directed towards his health.

Hay, who is contending with bipolar disorder, announced on Friday that he was retiring. He and the Roos were locked in dispute, the club wanting to slash his pay.

Speaking after Friday night's game, Laidley said Hay's health was of primary importance. "It was pretty disappointing, because from where he was at and what he went through last year, he was in a pretty dark place. He fought his way back, he had a terrific pre-season and my only concern now is not for Jonathan Hay the footballer, it's for Jonathan Hay the person," Laidley said.

"I've supported him pretty heavily through this, and I'll continue to do that, as will the players association, as will the club, because I think we've got to look after this guy. It's the first time it's happened in AFL football that perhaps we know about, and we have to make sure we look after him, because he's got a hell of a lot in front of him, and we have to make sure he has a great life."

When asked if Hay felt his hand was being forced, Laidley was emphatic: "Absolutely not. It's about this man's health. Forget all the other rigmarole, it's not about that, and I think the people who write anything about this topic would want to be very sensitive about it. Let's just let the dust settle, give Jon a bit of breathing space. I'm sure all parties, the players association, the football club and the AFL, will support this guy 100 per cent."

© 2007 The Sunday Age

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