‘Concerning Precedent’: Tony Shaw and Matt Richardson Question Sanction Procedures Following Bailey Smith’s Private Meeting

Collingwood legend Tony Shaw has voiced his concerns that a recent private discussion between Bailey Smith and AFL chief Andrew Dillon could create a “terrible precedent” for the league.

News broke on Sunday that Smith convened a confidential meeting with Dillon to address his ongoing behavioural issues that have dominated headlines in recent weeks.

The 24-year-old midfielder was accompanied by Geelong coach Chris Scott, CEO Steve Hocking, and football director Andrew Mackie during the meeting, as reported by Mitch Cleary from Seven News.

Smith ignited widespread debate last month when he was compelled to remove an Instagram post that suggested drug use might be a factor if the Cats aimed for the premiership in 2025.

Despite the seriousness of the comment, Smith faced no punishment, although he was cautioned that further incidents could lead to stricter consequences.

Smith’s remarks about his former team further stirred controversy within AFL circles, following previous discipline for making an obscene gesture towards fans during the Gather Round.

“Did Bailey really do anything so serious to warrant this type of personal engagement?” questioned Richmond legend Matthew Richardson on 3AW Football.

Shaw responded: “I don’t think so. Emotions can lead to gestures like that during games. However, the drugs comment was a serious issue, impacting both football and beyond.”

Reports indicate that Dillon’s intent during the meeting was not to chastise Smith but rather to underscore his significant role as a role model within the sport.

Both Shaw and Richardson acknowledged that they had never witnessed a player meeting with AFL management over behaviour-related concerns before.

“This has indeed set a dreadful precedent,” Shaw expressed. “While I appreciate the intent behind it, I wonder how this will influence others who may find themselves in trouble.”

“The reality is that Bailey is a prominent figure in the sport, and this will likely remain the case,” Richardson added. “He possesses a strong market presence and a considerable following on social media.”

“If a player with only 50 games under their belt and a modest social media presence were in the same situation, it wouldn’t garner the same level of scrutiny that Bailey faces.”

“The attention is likely due to the social media aspect… with the illicit drugs policy currently being reviewed, this remains a significant concern for the AFL. Bailey, being the most notable player, has sparked this discussion, and they’re clearly saying, ‘We don’t want this to happen again.’

Smith was not named in Geelong’s team for Saturday’s clash due to hamstring tightness but is anticipated to return for next week’s match against Essendon.