“We absolutely do not condone our players being involved with illicit substances and firmly believe players are well-educated on what constitutes appropriate behaviour,” Bains said.
spoken about really openly taking some leave“Bailey is a young man who has faced many challenges and pressures off the field in recent times which he has spoken of extensively,” The Western Bulldogs’ statement said.
“He endured a particularly difficult time towards the end of last year that ultimately led to time away from football.
“While this clearly does not excuse his behaviour, it is our responsibility as a Club to ensure we have supported, and we continue to support, Bailey’s health and wellbeing.
“We are encouraged that this year Bailey has successfully put steps in place to ensure he can manage his mental health and be strong in his decision-making, while being able to perform to the best of his ability on the field.”
Ultimately, the club said it would continue to support Smith. The picture incident is still being investigated both by the club and the AFL’s Integrity Unit.
“I have recently been made aware of the presence of social media content that shows me with an illicit substance,” he said.
In confronting this, the temptation is to speak in vague generalities and avoid the issue. However, I am determined to learn the lessons of my past and be a better person in the future.”“I do not have an excuse for those behaviours, however the state of my mental health over that period post Grand Final dramatically deteriorated, and I spiralled out of control leading to poor decision making and actions at the time. All of this resulting in the leave I took from football at the commencement of pre-season training late last year,” he explained.
“The depth of my emotions over that period, coupled with some of my behaviours, have reminded me that, as a person, I am still very much a work-in-progress.
“I know I have obligations beyond myself, not just contractually – but in terms of the example I set through the decisions I make, and I will be better.”
“I have made mistakes, but I resolve to learn from each and to do all I can to avoid letting myself down, and those around me.”
Smith also received support for his statement from the AFL Players Association [AFLPA] CEO Paul Marsh.
Marsh said in a statement that while Smith did make a mistake, he had “owned” it.
If you need mental health support, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or chat online. Under 25? You can reach Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800 or chat online.If you require immediate assistance, please call 000.The post AFL Player Bailey Smith Has Apologised For Leaked Pics Of Him W/ An ‘Illicit Substance’ appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .
