The teammates and colleagues of Warwick Rapley, 51, sought counsel from local psychologist Tim Manning at a session at Lady Cutler Oval recently, after he died on December 8.

Organised by the Dubbo District Cricket Association's Michael Davis and fellow resident Gary Barraclough, the counselling session was deemed positive as it helped Mr Rapley's teammates and son make a return to the cricket pitch last Saturday.

Familiar to many local sportsmen for his years playing cricket and rugby league, Mr Rapley was playing third grade cricket with South Dubbo's youth development side, alongside his youngest son, on what seemed to be an ordinary Saturday afternoon.

Shortly after, Mr Rapley collapsed on the field.

Mr Rapley's teammates were understandably distraught over his passing, and agreed to counselling a few days after his death. Mr Davis, who spoke on Dubbo's Zoo FM last week, said the Cricket Association wanted to organise some counselling to help teammates deal and move on from the tragic loss.

"With the help of Gary (Barraclough), the Cricket Association were happy to provide assistance to the teammates of Warwick Rapley," he said.

"I believe the counselling made a difference as his teammates were deeply affected by his passing."

Mr Barraclough said he was happy to fund the counselling session, as it was important for Mr Rapley's teammates.

Psychologist Tim Manning, who co-ordinated the debriefing session last Wednesday, said all attendees were informed about what to expect in the coming weeks.

"Friends and family will feel a lot of emotion for the next few weeks ... they needed to know it was okay to have a range of feelings at this difficult time," he said.

"The best support network for all affected are their families, friends, coaches and wider community if needed.

"I admire the courage it took for Warwick's teammates, as well as members of the opposing team he played against on that day, to come along and start the process. I was impressed as well with their decision to return to play cricket on Saturday."

Mr Rapley, in later life, became involved with St Johns Junior Rugby League, St Johns College, South Dubbo Junior League and Dubbo CYMS.

He was named Country Rugby League's Group 11 Player of the Year for Westside Rabbitohs in 1981 and remained a dedicated sportsman right until his passing.

anthony.cini@fairfaxmedia.com.au