Bailey Smith admits it’s been the most difficult year of his career as part of a heartfelt tribute to the Western Bulldogs following his trade to Geelong.
Smith was moved to the Cats in the final minutes of Wednesday’s trade deadline as part of a four-club trade, with the exciting on-baller on Thursday donning the blue and white hoops at GMHBA Stadium.
The 23-year old starts a new chapter of his career down the highway after 103 games for the Dogs since joining the club with Pick 7 in the 2018 National Draft.
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It follows a couple of tough years for Smith, including being suspended for possessing an illicit substance and taking leave due to mental health issues, while his entire 2024 season was wiped out by an ACL injury.
Posting to his 3470,000 Instagram followers on Thursday, Smith thanked his former club and fans “praying for my downfall” in explaining how he felt it was the right time to depart Whitten Oval.
“Feels like yesterday I was drafted to the club of my dreams. It will forever be one of the best days of my life. I can’t thank the Western Bulldogs enough for being my rock and having my back through both the best and worst times,” Smith said.
“As we know people evolve and change and through my pursuit of searching for fulfilment/purpose, the decision to leave the Kennel and Melbourne in general, felt right.
“Regardless of what narrative you wish to believe or what your take on me as a person is, just know that the Bulldogs faithful will always have a place in my heart… from ‘Bevo’ (Luke Beveridge), ‘Bont’ (Marcus Bontempelli) and the boys to the loyal fans in the cheer squad rocking up week in week out.
“Thanks for taking me in as a fresh faced 18-year old and helping me along my journey. I’ll forever be grateful and will do you proud in this next chapter as you’ve played such a pivotal role in my footballing and personal life.
“I can say, without a doubt, it’s been the most difficult year I’ve experienced and one day I’ll have the courage to open up about it, but for now, I’m gonna put my head down and do what I do best — get to work.
“To those praying on my downfall, thank you.
“See you in 2025.”
Smith’s manager, Paul Connors, on SEN opened up on Smith’s deadline deal that saw the Dogs receive Pick 17 and Matt Kennedy in a trade that also involved St Kilda and Carlton.
Smith was one of the most exciting young players in the game in the early years of his career before his off-field issues and ACL blow.
He returned to full training with the Dogs in September butt was never considered a chance to take part in the club’s finals campaign.
“We’re excited Bailey will be wearing the hoops from 2025 and beyond. At just 23 he is a talented player whose attributes gives us on-field flexibility and he will complement our current playing group,” Cats list boss Andrew Mackie said.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Bailey into our football club and our broader Geelong community.”
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