GEELONG, AUSTRALIA - JULY 20: Bailey Smith of the Cats warms up ahead of the round 19 AFL match between Geelong Cats and St Kilda Saints at GMHBA Stadium on July 20, 2025 in Geelong, Australia. (Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty Images)
Geelong Cats’ Bailey Smith Welcomes New Baby Ahead of Grand Final
In an extraordinary turn of events, Geelong Cats star Bailey Smith has welcomed his first child just hours before the highly anticipated Grand Final clash against the Brisbane Lions. The news has sent shockwaves of excitement and anticipation through the Australian rules football community, adding an emotional layer to what was already a momentous occasion.
Smith, who has had a stellar first season with the Geelong Cats, has quickly become a fan favorite due to his exceptional skills and dedication to the team. His achievements this year include being named an All-Australian and co-winning the AFL Coaches’ Association Champion Player of the Year. He also finished third in the Brownlow Medal, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s top players.
Adding to his impressive resume, Smith has consistently led the AFL in disposals per game and has been a dominant force in inside 50s and clearances for Geelong. His contributions have been instrumental in the Cats’ journey to the Grand Final, where they aim to secure the premiership title.
The timing of the baby’s arrival has added a unique dimension to the Grand Final narrative. While Smith is undoubtedly overjoyed by the birth of his child, he also faces the challenge of balancing his personal joy with the immense pressure of performing at his best in the biggest game of the season.
The Geelong Cats organization has expressed its full support for Smith, ensuring that he has the time and space needed to be with his family while also preparing for the Grand Final. The team’s coach, in a press conference, praised Smith’s professionalism and ability to handle pressure, expressing confidence that he will be ready to give his all on the field.
As the Grand Final approaches, all eyes will be on Bailey Smith to see how he manages this extraordinary situation. Whether he can channel his newfound fatherly energy into an exceptional performance remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his story has added an unforgettable chapter to the Geelong Cats’ season and the history of the AFL Grand Final.
