Geelong star Bailey Smith was involved in a heated exchange with a photographer during an open training session on Wednesday. Smith confronted Alison Wynd, a long-time News Corp photographer, demanding she delete images of him receiving treatment near the boundary line.
The incident occurred at the Cats’ training ground in Geelong, where media personnel were invited to observe the session. Smith, visibly agitated, approached Wynd after she captured a photo of him flipping the bird at the camera. The 24-year-old player has been fined twice this year by the AFL for similar gestures during games.
Witnesses reported that Smith launched into an expletive-laden tirade, telling Wynd to “delete them, delete them.” Wynd, maintaining her composure, refused, stating, “I’m not deleting them, I’m just doing my job.” Smith responded with further profanity, prompting Wynd to redirect her camera to avoid escalating the situation.
Context and Reactions
The altercation unfolded in front of journalists, photographers, and camera operators, highlighting the tension between athletes and media. This was not the first time Smith had targeted Wynd; she revealed it was the second such incident this season.
Despite the confrontation, Wynd chose not to file an official complaint but did discuss the matter with Geelong’s media officials. She expressed her intent to continue attending training sessions, underscoring her commitment to her role.
Geelong forward Shannon Neale, speaking at a scheduled press conference, was unaware of the incident but shared his perspective on media relations. “I don’t speak for anyone else here, but my own mindset is like when I come in here into this room, if I respect you guys, I get the respect back and vice versa,” Neale commented, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect.
Smith’s Struggles and Impact
Smith’s outburst comes amid a challenging period for the player, who recently opened up about his mental health struggles. In a candid interview, Smith disclosed spending four weeks in a mental health facility, shedding light on the pressures faced by professional athletes.
Geelong coach Chris Scott has previously expressed frustration over media coverage, particularly when a conversation between him and Smith was broadcast earlier in the season. The club has been supportive of Smith, recognizing his contributions to their pursuit of a second premiership in four years.
Neale praised Smith’s positive influence within the team, stating, “He brings such a good energy, such a different energy. He’s really relishing the environment, the culture of the club, allowing him to be him.”
Implications and Moving Forward
The incident raises questions about the boundaries between athletes and media, particularly in high-pressure environments. As sports figures increasingly become public personas, the scrutiny they face can exacerbate existing pressures, impacting their mental health and professional conduct.
While Smith’s actions have drawn criticism, they also highlight the need for greater understanding and support for athletes dealing with mental health challenges. The AFL and clubs like Geelong may need to consider additional measures to support players, ensuring they have the resources to manage stress effectively.
As the season progresses, Smith’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial for both his personal well-being and his contributions to the team. The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining privacy and fulfilling public and media expectations in the world of professional sports.
