Bailey Smith Evades Press as Tammy Hembrow Hints at Friday Finals Football Attendance

Geelong Coach Chris Scott Praises Bailey Smith After Mental Health Revelation
Geelong coach Chris Scott has lauded Bailey Smith for his courage after the Cats star opened up about his mental health struggles during an emotional All-Australian acceptance speech last week. The 24-year-old midfielder, one of the AFL’s most high-profile players, revealed he checked himself into a mental health facility earlier this year, sparking renewed conversations about athlete well-being.

Scott, who described himself as a private person, emphasized that while individuals shouldn’t feel pressured to share personal struggles, Smith’s decision to speak out was commendable. “We should be open enough to at least listen,” Scott said ahead of Geelong’s qualifying final against the Brisbane Lions. He praised Smith’s resilience, stating, “What I do have a strong opinion on is how proud I am… of the journey he’s been on. He’s been outstanding in every way.”

Bailey Smith’s candidness about his mental health journey has drawn widespread support.

Smith’s revelation coincides with heightened attention on his personal life, including his rumored relationship with social media influencer Tammy Hembrow. The pair seemingly confirmed their romance in late August with a post showcasing a lavish dinner date. Hembrow, who boasts 17 million Instagram followers, later hinted she might attend Friday’s Lions clash, sharing a video of a suitcase with the caption, “Quick trip.”

Hembrow’s potential attendance has added to the buzz around Smith’s return to form.

Despite missing Geelong’s captain’s run training session, Scott confirmed Smith is fit for the finals. “He tries to avoid you [media] as much as possible… but I’m fine, too,” he joked, referencing a July incident where footage of a private coach-player discussion sparked controversy.

Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan also commended Smith’s honesty, stressing the intense scrutiny athletes face. “Social media amplifies pressure,” Fagan said. “We must recognize the toll it takes.”

Geelong enters the finals in strong form, with only ruckman Toby Conway officially injured. Speculation around Rhys Stanley’s hamstring held little weight as Scott remained tight-lipped on lineup changes. Forward Ollie Henry, who shone in last year’s preliminary final against Brisbane, is likely to return after recovering from a round-18 absence.

A Brownlow Medal contender, Smith’s focus remains on team success.

Smith’s on-field impact remains undisputed—he’s tied for second in Brownlow Medal votes (31)—but his willingness to prioritize mental health has cemented his role as a relatable figure in sport. As Scott noted, “There shouldn’t be a burden on others to share… but Bailey’s choice to do so matters.”

Mental health support:

• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• Beyondblue: 1300 22 4636

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