Prominent AFL journalist Caroline Wilson has suggested that Bailey Smith’s off-field behaviour is not sitting well with some of his Geelong teammates. This observation follows a recent private meeting between AFL chief Andrew Dillon, Smith, and the Cats’ leadership. Dillon addressed Smith over a controversial Instagram post that alluded to the use of illicit drugs, although Smith did not face any formal punishment.
Wilson discussed the various aspects leading to Dillon’s one-hour journey to meet Smith, highlighting concerns among the Geelong players regarding his conduct. On a recent episode of Wide World of Sports’ 3AW, Wilson noted that Dillon has a personal connection to Smith, both having attended Xavier College, which may have prompted Dillon’s interest in addressing Smith’s actions directly. Geelong’s football boss, Andrew Mackie, was also present at the meeting, indicating the club’s concern.
According to Wilson, while Geelong players appreciate Smith’s contribution to the team, they are unsettled by his inconsistent behaviour, beyond just the social media incident. She mentioned that while they were aware of Smith’s reputation upon his arrival, the reality of his actions has raised eyebrows. There are concerns about Smith’s reliability and judgement at critical moments, leaving some teammates feeling uneasy.
Wilson praised Dillon for handling the situation with care, opting for a gentle approach rather than confronting Smith publicly. She emphasised the importance of conveying the seriousness of the message regarding Smith’s behaviour, especially given his influence over young fans who follow him on social media. Wilson noted that Dillon effectively communicated the potential within Smith if he chose to focus on his responsibilities towards his team and sport.
Lastly, it was reported that Smith missed Geelong’s recent match against Gold Coast due to hamstring soreness, further adding to the uncertainties surrounding his fitness and commitment.