Sport

Sidebottom signs as Melbourne development coach

By Josh Huntly

Nov 10, 2026

Tallygaroopna's Steele Sidebottom will join Melbourne as an assistant coach.

The man of Steele has decided on his next move in the AFL ranks, and he’ll be calling Casey Fields home in 2027.

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After a stellar 373-game career with Collingwood, Tallygaroopna product Steele Sidebottom has taken the leap into coaching, joining Melbourne as a development coach.

"We are thrilled to have someone of Steele's experience and character joining our football program to help develop our players and take their game to another level," Melbourne Chief of Football Ned Guy said.

"He has been part of successful teams, understands what it takes to perform at the highest level and has a really good understanding of the game.

"Steele is a terrific person who will bring a lot to our group, and we are really looking forward to having him around the club and joining our coaching group."

Sidebottom’s leadership nous has already seen clubs come calling.

North Melbourne recently invited the ex-Pie to the coaching recruitment panel appointed to find Alastair Clarkson’s successor, eventually landing on Jaymie Graham.

Away from his coaching role, Sidebottom also confirmed last month where he would continue playing when not on Melbourne duties.

Gippsland league club Wonthaggi Power won the race for the prized signature of Sidebottom last month, reuniting him with 2010 premiership teammate Jarryd Blair.