Bailey Smith Reveals Reasons for Departure from Western Bulldogs Amid Geelong Speculations
Bailey Smith, the AFL superstar, has announced his intention to leave the Western Bulldogs, likely heading to Geelong. At the EJ Whitten Grand Final Legends Lunch, he expressed his love for the club despite feeling he has outgrown it. Smith emphasized the need for a change to develop both as a player and a person. He acknowledged the pressures of media attention but remains focused on his passion for football. His manager affirmed ongoing discussions about his future, while Bulldogs' officials lamented his potential departure.
AFL star Bailey Smith has publicly addressed his anticipated departure from the Western Bulldogs. At 23 years old, Smith has expressed his desire to leave the club, with Geelong being the expected destination. He shared insights into his decision during a recent event, clarifying his feelings towards both the club and the sport.
Smith Discusses His Decision to Leave the Bulldogs
Bailey Smith has opened up about his choice to move on from the Western Bulldogs, emphasizing his enduring affection for the club. During the EJ Whitten Grand Final Legends Lunch, he remarked, "I still love the club, that's what people forget." He acknowledged that at times, individuals outgrow their surroundings and seek fresh opportunities. Smith noted, "I feel like I'd be doing myself a disservice for the player I want to become and the person I want to become by staying in the same environment." His decision appears to stem from a desire for personal growth rather than any negative sentiment towards his current team.
Smith's Relationship with Media and Personal Reflections
Bailey Smith, known for his significant presence on social media, reflected on the dual nature of media attention and personal pressures. He stated, "I could sort of resent all the headlines I've had," acknowledging the challenges that come with the public eye. However, he also emphasized the importance of appreciating the fundamentals of the game. Smith revealed that spending time with family and playing football in its simplest form has helped reignite his passion for the sport. He expressed a desire to focus more on football, stating, "That's my mission in the next 10-12 years... to be more football oriented than all the stuff that's been thrown up so far."
Speculation Surrounding a Move to Geelong
While speculation mounts about Bailey Smith's transfer to Geelong, his manager Paul Connors has remained tight-lipped regarding the future. "Amazingly we're still working through that," Connors said, leaving fans and analysts eager for confirmation. Furthermore, Luke Darcy, a board member of the Bulldogs, expressed his disappointment at Smith's potential exit, calling it "heartbreaking" due to the respect and affection the team holds for him. Darcy humorously suggested that a fair deal would involve trading star Jeremy Cameron along with two first-round picks for Smith, underscoring the young talent's value in the league.
