Star forwards a drawcard as Smith makes his Cats call
HAWKS speedster Isaac Smith says he lost sleep weighing up his decision to join Geelong but is excited about the prospect of delivering the ball to Jeremy Cameron and Tom Hawkins next year.
Smith, 31, has accepted a twoyear deal at Geelong over a threeyear contract at Melbourne.
Hawthorn will receive a thirdround pick as free agency compensation for Smith’s departure.
It was the first big signature for the Cats as they look to trade in North Melbourne classy playmaker Shaun Higgins and free agent Cameron in a massive boost to their premiership tilt for next year.
Smith said it was hard leaving the Hawthorn club where he won three AFL premierships, but he was ultimately ready for a fresh on-field challenge and new club setting.
The star wingman said his family was also ready to get back its “country roots” in Geelong.
“It has been a very difficult decision, incredibly hard and I’ve probably had a few sleepless nights over the last three or four nights to be honest,” Smith said.
“The heart was certainly leaning towards Hawthorn but in the end the head won and I’m up for a new challenge and a new journey and I’m very excited to be part of the Geelong Football Club.
“I look forward to challenging myself and contributing to a great organisation and hopefully, some success to come.”
Smith said he had been “blessed” to spend 10 years at the Hawks and confirmed that he only made the final decision with his wife on Thursday night.
The gun linebreaker also joked that he should be in Geelong fans’ good books after missing late game-winning shots in the 2016 qualifying final and in a regular season game the following year. “I’ve already won them two games of footy so hopefully the fans are happy,” he said.
Smith was adamant he had “plenty of petrol left” in his legs and said he was keen to join forces with Cameron in the forward half next year.
The Cats will lodge their free agency paperwork for Cameron in a bid to secure him for nothing.
GWS Giants officials are determined to match, forcing a trade.