Geelong premiership forward Tyson Stengle has taken personal leave away from the club, with his return timeline uncertain. The 27-year-old has not returned to the Cats following the resumption of training after Christmas as he deals with a personal situation.
Stengle began his break in December earlier than his teammates following a difficult period off the field. It is hoped the small forward will return in coming weeks, but his position in Geelong’s line-up for the start of the 2026 season remains unclear.
“Tyson’s welfare is our priority and, with the support of the club, he’ll be given the time he needs before returning to training,” Geelong footy boss Andrew Mackie said in a statement.
Stengle is the second AFL player to remain on personal leave post-Christmas, with Collingwood’s Norm Smith medallist Bobby Hill also away from his club. Geelong faces Gold Coast in Opening Round on March 6 at People First Stadium.
Stengle received a career lifeline at the Cats after being delisted by Adelaide in March 2021 following an illicit substance incident. In his debut season, he was named an All-Australian and part of Geelong’s 2022 premiership. He re-signed on a five-year deal in 2024 after rejecting a lucrative offer from St Kilda. Last season, he kicked 34 goals in 24 of 26 possible games.
