There are always plenty of storylines heading into the opening game of a team's season, with so many unknowns about what lies ahead. 

All eyes were on the Cattery following an impressive 2024 season, which saw Geelong come within 10 points of a Grand Final appearance. Many wondered if they could continue their ascension and compete at the pointy end of the season once again. 

But there were also plenty of interested onlookers for another reason in Round 1, with star recruit Bailey Smith pulling on the blue and white Hoops for the very first time. 

The task in the opening game of the season was not a simple one, facing a Fremantle side that many had tipped to be a contender in 2025. 

In sweltering conditions at GMHBA Stadium, the Cats commenced their campaign and behind an inspirational performance from their new recruit, gave an exciting glimpse of what was to come.

It was an absolute dream start as Geelong closed out the opening term with a run of four unanswered goals, taking a 27-point lead into quarter time with Smith collecting 10 disposals and three clearances in his first quarter as a Cat. 

Things continued to get better from there with another seven goals in the second quarter, Geelong extending their lead to 54 points at the main break. 

17 disposals, six score involvements and four clearances were Smith's half time stat tally. Those wanting to see the superstar in action certainly got plenty of opportunities in a dominant opening half in the Hoops. 

The Cats would not have things all their own way, a brilliant burst by Fremantle's Murphy Reid and a six-goal quarter pulled the Dockers back within 21 points, creating plenty of intrigue and tension among the Geelong faithful at the final break. 

But this was a strong Geelong team with stars all over the field, and they were not willing to let the four points slip out of their grasp in the season opener. 

A late barrage kicked the Cats clear, led by three fourth-quarter goals from Jeremy Cameron. Seven different Geelong players hit the scoreboard during the final stanza, including Bailey Smith to put the cherry on top of a spectacular performance.

It ultimately finished as a 10-goal quarter for Geelong, turning a 21-point three-quarter-time lead into a thumping 78-point victory, the Cats getting their season off to a perfect start. 

While Geelong had plenty of strong performances on the day, there were none better than Bailey Smith who finished with 32 disposals, seven clearances and 12 score involvements, eventually receiving a perfect 10 coaches votes and clinching the three votes in the Brownlow Medal in a best on ground display.