When a fresh start came knocking during the offseason, Bella Smith knew that joining the Cats was an opportunity she could not refuse.
After a wretched run with injury in her two years at Brisbane, Smith joined the Cats at the end of the 2023 season as part of a three way trade with the Lions and West Coast.
The emerging on-baller was drafted with pick 35 in the 2021 AFLW draft, touted as a strong inside midfielder with clean hands and plenty of power around a contest.
Smith told the media that she is enjoying life in Geelong following a smooth transition from the Sunshine state, and she is ready to get cracking ahead of the AFLW season.
"I am very content with the decision I made, and I am really enjoying it down here,” Smith said.
"I definitely came down here with an open mind, not wanting to compare it to my past experiences and what I already know.
“When I met with Geelong I felt great, I felt valued by Dan and Ben straight away and I knew that was the right next step for me and my career.
“So far I am really enjoying it, just embracing it all and I am super excited to see what we can do this season.”
Smith has already donned the Hoops once this year, joining the VFLW Cats for their round eight clash against Collingwood.
The tough midfielder showed plenty of her potential as she collected 15 disposals, laying eight tackles and picking up three clearances.
Smith said she is looking forward to bringing a different dynamic to the Cats midfield, while enjoying everything that Geelong has to offer.
"I am someone who enjoys contested footy and loves the inside game,” Smith said.
“I'm hoping to slot in as a half forward and an on-baller, to get in amongst the contest.
“That is something I am trying to bring to this team, challenging them in that area.
“As soon as I rocked up to see GMHBA Stadium, I was in awe of the facilities we have.
“It is amazing here, it is a great deck out there and we can definitely use it as a home ground advantage.
“I am looking forward to getting out there and playing some footy."
