Geelong has expressed unease over Bailey Smith’s social media conduct, with club chief executive Steve Hocking confirming that the Cats will be reviewing the midfielder’s online presence following several incidents that drew public criticism.
Speaking on SEN on Thursday, Hocking said Smith’s relationship with social media was unlike that of others at the club and warranted reflection during the off-season.
“When you come off-field, the interest in him is just unbelievable. He has a very different relationship with social media to ... our age profile,” Hocking said.
“I don’t understand it at all. He works that exceptionally well. There will be a time, in my view, and this will involve all of us over the off-season, where we just need to have some reflection. It’s not about tiptoeing around someone like Bailey but more about tailoring it accordingly.”
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Controversy follows Mad Monday fallout
Smith’s posts from Geelong’s Mad Monday celebrations last month sparked backlash, including from former AFL player Mitch Brown, who labelled one of them homophobic.
Veteran journalist Caroline Wilson also criticised the player for how he depicted her on social media.
Hocking confirmed the club would clamp down on future Mad Monday events. “There are certain individuals who have dressed up inappropriately and we apologise ... we’ve been quite clear on that,” he said.
Despite the off-field distractions, Hocking praised Smith’s on-field impact since joining Geelong, describing the club’s relationship with him as “really, really early” and stressing the need for balance between performance and responsibility.