AFL great Carl Ditterich charged with child sex offences

Carl Ditterich, a former Australian Rules Football (AFL) player and coach, was charged with multiple child sex offenses by Victoria Police in March 2023. The charges stem from an alleged incident that occurred in 1985.

Ditterich, who played for North Melbourne Football Club between 1977 and 1983, was a key forward and made a significant impact on the team during his career. He was a two-time premiership player and was renowned for his strong marking and goal-scoring abilities.

After retiring from playing, Ditterich went on to coach various football teams, including North Melbourne's reserves side and the South Melbourne Swans in the Victorian Football Association (VFA). He also worked as a football development officer for the North Melbourne Football Club.

The charges against Ditterich came to light following an investigation by Victoria Police's Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOTAT). The alleged victim came forward and reported the incident to police, leading to the launch of an investigation.

The charges against Ditterich include multiple counts of indecent assault and sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16. The incidents are said to have occurred during a period when Ditterich was working as a football development officer for North Melbourne.

Ditterich was arrested and charged on March 23, 2023, and was granted bail with strict conditions. He is due to appear at Melbourne Magistrates' Court on April 20, 2023.

The North Melbourne Football Club issued a statement expressing their shock and disappointment at the allegations and stating that they would fully support the legal process. The club also offered support to anyone affected by the allegations.

The AFL also released a statement expressing their concern for anyone affected by the allegations and stating that they would work closely with Victoria Police and North Melbourne Football Club to support the legal process and ensure the welfare of any affected parties.

The allegations against Ditterich are a reminder of the ongoing issue of child sexual abuse in sporting and other contexts and the importance of reporting such incidents and supporting those affected. The AFL and other sporting organizations have implemented various measures to prevent and respond to such incidents, including mandatory reporting policies and education programs for players and staff.