The 27-year-old plumber was diagnosed with cancer of the lymphatic system just before Australia Day, and began to lose his hair as a result of chemotherapy last week.

"I shaved his hair off on Sunday as he lost half his hair on Friday," his sister, Abbie, said.

"He was pretty flat and down."

Mr Bessell captained the Winnaleah Football Club to two premierships and, unbeknown to him, about 20 of his teammates took the clippers to their heads before going to visit him last night to show their support.

"I thought I needed to do something to pick him up, so I rallied the boys and they got right behind it to try and make him feel less isolated," Ms Bessell said.

"He had no idea and will be totally surprised."

Winnaleah treasurer Mark Kerr said it was the least the club could do for one of its favourite sons.

"Compared to what he is going through, this is nothing for us," Mr Kerr said.

"When Abbie called I didn't have to think twice ... it is a big step to lose all of your hair, even though it is probably the least of his worries.

"If we all look the same as he does it might make it a little easier for him."