Collingwood Magpies forward Bobby Hill has stepped away from the AFL club to deal with a personal matter, placing his availability for the season opener in just two months under a cloud.
Club Confirms Leave for Personal Situation
The club confirmed on Friday night that the 2023 Norm Smith medallist would be taking a period of personal leave. The decision was made jointly by Hill, his management, and the Collingwood Football Club.
Football boss Charlie Gardiner emphasised the club's primary concern is for Hill's welfare. "We care for Bobby and his health and wellbeing remain the priority as he continues to work through his personal situation," Gardiner stated.
He added that the club would continue to support the player during his time away from the AFL program, aiming to have him return in a full-time capacity when the time is right.
Interrupted Pre-Season and Hamstring Concerns
This latest absence compounds an already disrupted preparation for the 25-year-old. It was previously revealed that Hill had been managing a hamstring issue in the lead-up to Christmas.
While there was initial optimism he would re-join the main training group in the new year, the need for personal leave has now taken precedence. This follows a similarly interrupted 2023 season where Hill made just one senior appearance after Round 15 due to personal issues and a lack of conditioning.
His only involvement late last year was as the substitute in Round 21, and he was subsequently overlooked for selection in both of Collingwood's finals matches.
Contract Security Amid Uncertainty
Despite the ongoing challenges and even being subject to trade rumours during the off-season, Hill's future at the club appears secure on paper. The dynamic forward, who crossed from GWS at the end of the 2022 season, is contracted with the Magpies until the end of the 2030 season.
All eyes will now be on his recovery and readiness, with the premiership defence looming. Collingwood's 2024 season opener is against St Kilda on March 8, leaving just two months for Hill to resolve his situation and regain the conditioning required for AFL football.
