Bailey Smith is a professional Australian Rules football player who plays for the Western Bulldogs. He was selected by the Bulldogs as the 7th overall pick in the 2018 AFL draft and made his debut during the 2019 AFL season.
Bio/Wiki
Age- 22 years
Height- 1.85 m
Weight- 86 kg
Born- 7 December 2000
Birthplace-Melbourne, Australia
Profession-Football Player
Nationality- Australian
Date joined-March 2019 (Western Bulldogs)
Current team-Central Michigan Chippewas football (#47 / Tight end)
Family
Bailey’s father is Nick, and his mother’s name has not been disclosed. Smith has an older brother and a younger sister. He follows the Catholic faith. In 2023, Smith commenced his studies for a Bachelor of Business degree.
Girlfriend
Bailey Smith and his partner, Gemma Dawkins, were spotted together at the club’s best and fairest awards night at Crown, marking a rare public appearance for the couple.
Career
Early Career
During his early career, Smith played for the East Malvern Junior Football Club in Melbourne’s south-east. In 2011, he clinched the MSJFL under-11 west division best and fairest award. Smith also earned a best and fairest title with Xavier College during his Year 11, while simultaneously being named a member of the AIS-AFL Academy.
He furthered his career playing for the Sandringham Dragons in the NAB League for both the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Additionally, Smith was selected to represent Vic Metro in the AFL under 18 Championships in the 2018 season. Ultimately, he was chosen as the 7th pick by the Western Bulldogs in the 2018 AFL draft.
AFL Career
Upon his arrival at the club, Smith was set to inherit the no.6 Guernsey from Luke Dahlhaus, the player who was leaving. However, a setback occurred as he missed a significant portion of the pre-season due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained in his draft year. Despite this challenge, Smith made his AFL debut in the Western Bulldogs’ victory over the Sydney Swans in the opening round of the 2019 AFL season.
In the 2020 season, which was significantly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith had a remarkable year. He played every game, demonstrating his durability by participating in all 35 matches. The following year, 2021, saw Smith diversifying his role within the team, rotating between positions such as midfielder, wingman, and forward. His improved fitness was evident as he won the team’s running test during the pre-season, signaling a promising start.
However, in June 2022, a video surfaced showing Smith holding a bag of white powder at a late 2021 party. Consequently, he released a statement admitting to possessing an illicit substance, leading to a two-match suspension as a consequence.
Achievement/ Honors
Chris Grant was honored as the Best First Year Player in 2019. Additionally, he earned a spot in the 22 Under 22 team for both 2020 and 2021. Grant’s achievements were further highlighted when he received the Bob Rose-Charlie Sutton Medal in 2021.
Health
Smith has openly shared his experiences with mental health challenges, finding support and mentorship from his former teammate Dale Morris, who has been instrumental in helping him navigate these struggles. Additionally, in May 2020, Smith participated in the Big Freeze challenge, a charitable event where participants plunge into icy water to raise funds for motor neuron disease research.
Net Worth 2023
Bailey Smith’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $4 million.
Bailey Smith’s Latest News
Bailey Smith’s Romantic Moments with Girlfriend Gemma Dawkins
Last year, AFL star Bailey Smith publicly revealed his relationship with his girlfriend, Gemma Dawkins. Recently, the 22-year-old Bulldogs player shared delightful photos on Instagram, capturing moments of him and his stunning partner at an event in Melbourne. In one precious photo, the couple is seen happily laughing together, with Bailey looking dapper by her side.
Bailey’s followers were swift to express their admiration for the charming photos. “Beautiful couple,” one fan commented, a sentiment echoed by many others.
This appearance follows his public acknowledgment of his relationship with Dawkins during an interview in May 2022. The rising star boasts a substantial Instagram following of over 339,000 and has secured profitable sponsorships with Monster Energy, McDonald’s, and Cotton On.
Fun Facts
- Social Media Presence: Bailey Smith has a significant presence on social media, particularly on Instagram, where he boasts 364,000 followers, making him the AFL player with the highest Instagram following.
- Distinct Mullet Hairstyle: He is widely recognized for his distinctive mullet hairstyle, which has become one of his defining features.[66]
- Brand Ambassadorships: Smith serves as a brand ambassador for Cotton On, a popular clothing chain, as well as Monster Energy, a renowned energy drink brand.
- Collaboration with Cotton On: He collaborated with Cotton On on a clothing collection, which was officially launched in September 2023.
- Advertising Campaigns: Smith has been featured in advertising campaigns for several major brands, including McDonald’s, Kayo Sports, and CoinSpot.
- Entrepreneurship: In 2023, Smith founded a company called Alter Ego Drinks and introduced a line of alcoholic beverages named “Barry.”
