The move of Bailey to Port Adelaide strengthens the Essendon connection with the Power. On the playing side, Damien Hardwick, Gavin Wanganeen and Che Cockatoo-Collins are all former Bombers while fitness coach Andrew Russell learned the ropes under Essendon fitness coach John Quinn. Port Adelaide 1998 best and fairest winner Adam Kingsley also played with Essendon reserves. Senior coach Mark Williams spent time at Essendon as an assistant coach
Bailey is very much looking forward to the next phase of his football career. ""Essendon is a great club and I have played and coached here. But I think I am also going to a great club that also has plenty of history behind it,"" Bailey said. ""Sheeds was very supportive of my decision which made it easier. He likes to see people further themselves and hopefully that is what I am doing.""
Bailey said he is yet to speak with departed Bomber Damien Hardwick about the move. ""I think Damien knew there was a chance that I would be coming over. I spoke to him briefly last week and he hasn't changed a bit - he was complaining about how hard pre-season was,"" Bailey laughed. ""It will be good to catch up with him again. I think I will probably start early next week.""
Essendon football manager Matthew Drain thanked Bailey for his service and wished him all the best in his new role. ""It was a great opportunity for Dean and we certainly wouldn't stand in his way. We thank him for his efforts and wish him all the best,"" Drain said.
