The Bell rings on James’ time at the Bay

BY LAURA HUBERT

A beloved figure at the Bay in recent years, and forever a fan-favourite, James Bell has closed his chapter in the black and gold. After three influential seasons, Bell leaves Glenelg Football Club with the same energy he brought through the Brighton Road doors: a dedicated, driven, football spirit.

From the moment he arrived in December 2022, the agile, quick product of QBE Sydney Swans Academy, soon became more than just a talented recruit. He became family, and played a significant role as a mate in the lives of each player, coach, volunteer or supporter he crossed paths with.

Belly’s first year in the black and gold was described as a settling-in period, granting him the opportunity to shape the future of his game. Playing every match of that premiership season (2023), he delivered one of many epic sparks in that unforgettable grand final – slotting a goal in the opening minute of the third quarter. He finished that day with 22 disposals, five tackles, and a SANFL premiership medal draped around his neck.

But, it was his second season in the black and gold where his story grew even deeper. With his beloved teammates beside him, Belly helped deliver Glenelg’s second-ever back-to-back premiership. Moments mattered, and he always stood up when they did.

His preparation for 2024 was relentless as he stepped into a midfield role, filling the gaps left by Luke Partington and Brett Turner. He rose to the occasion when coach Darren Reeves presented the concept, and he rose again in September later that year. A third-place finish in the Jack Oatey Medal count, trailing a seven-goal captain, was a testament to his impact, courage and ability to stand up on the big stage.

Club Historian Peter Cornwall reflected on Belly’s influence, calling his efforts vital to Glenelg’s best five weeks of football that year. The week before the grand final, Bell had 23 disposals and 10 tackles, the perfect example of this.

Belly’s on-field achievements are replicas of his off-field character, one loved by his teammates, staff, and supporters alike. All of which were recognised at the conclusion of season 2024, with a second SANFL premiership medal, a Player of the Year award as voted by Snouts Louts, and a joint JH Ellers Best and Fairest award alongside teammate Matt Allen.

Bell’s time at the Bay was concluded this season, with yet another year of impressive talent under his belt, named in the 2025 West End State Squad for the KIA State Game and placed an impressive fourth place on the final leaderboard of the 2025 JH Ellers Best and Fairest count.

Premiership Captain Liam McBean reflects fondly on Belly’s time in the black and gold, admitting seeing the back of Belly is tough to accept;

“Belly’s story with the Bays is one worth celebrating. He’s a two-time premiership player and best and fairest winner. However, more than that, he’s not only made an incredible impact on our group culturally, he has also left our football club with a better sense of direction and purpose in his life. Whilst we’re devastated to lose Belly, we fully support him chasing his dream back into the AFL.

“The door will always be open,” Liam said.

As we say goodbye to Belly, we do so with gratitude for the great influence he has had in his short time at the Bay. James Bell will return home to New South Wales, where he has secured a position with Greater Western Sydney – an opportunity for him to reconnect with his home state, return to partner Sophie, and get another chance playing football at the highest level possible.

On his exit, Belly shares thanks to the entire Bays community;

“To the coaches and teammates who welcomed me and believed in me, thank you.

To the proud club and supporters who took me in and made me their own these last 3 years, thank you.

To those who rang the bell and helped me find my love and passion for the game again, THANK YOU.

My time with Glenelg has been the best of my life and I couldn’t be more grateful for the success I’ve found both on and off the field. I appreciate the love and support week in and week out more than you’d ever know and for that alone, Glenelg and its people will have a special place in my heart. My time here may be over, but the memories, lessons and friendships I’ve experienced I’ll carry with me into this next chapter of my life and beyond. So thank you and farewell, it’s been real.”