Collingwood Magpies superstar Nick Daicos has firmly stated that there is absolutely no pressure on sidelined forward Bobby Hill to make a premature return to the club before he feels fully prepared. Hill, the celebrated 2023 Norm Smith medallist, is currently on extended personal leave for the second time within a twelve-month period, highlighting ongoing challenges in his personal life.
Prioritising Health Over Hurry
The 25-year-old forward managed only fourteen games last season due to personal circumstances that significantly impacted his training availability and overall readiness. Even after rejoining the club in the lead-up to the finals series, Hill was ultimately overlooked for selection as Collingwood exited in the preliminary final against the eventual premiers, the Brisbane Lions.
In an official statement released on January 9, Collingwood confirmed that Hill would not return until after the Christmas break, a decision that underscores the club's commitment to his wellbeing. His absence was notably felt when the rest of the squad attended the Australian Open in the Emirates marquee on Friday, with Hill not present among his teammates.
Daicos Emphasises Support and Patience
"With Bob, it's just ensuring that his health and wellbeing is the main priority constantly," Daicos explained. "We've been checking in with him, and I think he's going well. Whenever the time's ready for him and he's ready to join back in training is a win."
Daicos further elaborated on the collective support within the team, stating, "We all love seeing him out there doing what he does, and he gives us all so much energy. Hopefully that's soon, but I don't think there's any pressure on him. We just want him, his health and well being to be the main priority."
The young star highlighted the respectful environment at Collingwood, noting, "We've all been respectful and want Bob to be feeling like he can come to and talk to us. A lot of us have checked in making sure he's going well, and it seems to be that he is feeling really good."
Covering Absences and Addressing Criticisms
Even if Hill returns to training in the near future, the premiership hero is almost certain to be unavailable during the early stages of the upcoming AFL season. However, Daicos expressed confidence in Collingwood's ability to cover his absence, as well as the departure of fellow forward Brody Mihocek, who has moved to Melbourne.
Daicos also addressed familiar criticisms regarding the Magpies' age profile, with the team set to enter the season once again as the oldest list in the competition. This follows new contracts for veterans such as Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, and Jeremy Howe.
"We'll start the season really strong so I'm looking forward to that," Daicos asserted. "We had the same predicted for us in 2025 where they were saying we're getting older, but we still made a prelim."
Personal Fitness and Team Management
On a personal note, Daicos dismissed any concerns about his own fitness, having starred during a match simulation session on Friday. The 23-year-old briefly left the field at training last week with a minor leg concern but returned later in the session without issue.
"Feeling really fresh, body feels awesome heading into the practice matches," Daicos reported. "The club's done a great job with managing a few of the boys, and now we're seeing the benefits of it. It's quite frustrating the time when you get held back because you want to train, but now the body feels amazing."
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