AFL Update: Collingwood’s Bobby Hill, Geelong’s Stengle, and Coaching Shake-ups

Collingwood premiership-winning small forward Bobby Hill is likely to depart the club as he manages ongoing personal issues, while Geelong continues negotiations regarding the future of Tyson Stengle. These developments headline a busy week in the AFL, which also features administrative updates regarding AFLW venue selections and the aftermath of the Tasmania Devils coaching appointment.

Collingwood’s Support for Bobby Hill

Collingwood coach Craig McRae confirmed on July 21, 2026, that the club remains in contact with Bobby Hill, though the Norm Smith medallist has been absent from the club for an extended period. McRae, speaking to the media, expressed deep concern for Hill’s wellbeing, describing the situation as an emotional one for the team. According to league sources, Hill is under contract through 2030 on a deal valued at approximately $750,000 per season. Despite his limited participation—having played only three VFL games this year—McRae emphasized that the club’s primary focus remains on supporting Hill and his family.

Tyson Stengle’s Uncertain Future at Geelong

Geelong is currently in discussions with the management of Tyson Stengle regarding the potential early termination of his contract, which is set to run until 2029. Stengle, 27, has not featured in an AFL match this season following a difficult pre-season and a brief return to the VFL in June. Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield acknowledged the ongoing talks during an interview on Fox Footy, stating that while he is not privy to the specific contract negotiations, his priority as a teammate is ensuring Stengle has the necessary support. Stengle, an All-Australian in 2022, has kicked 175 goals across his career with the Cats, Adelaide, and Richmond.

AFLW Venue Strategy Defended by Laura Kane

AFL Executive General Manager of AFLW, health and football operations Laura Kane has defended the league’s decision to keep the upcoming Australia v Ireland women’s match at North Sydney Oval, despite calls to move the sell-out event to a larger venue like the SCG. Kane noted that the decision was based on data regarding ticket demand and the league’s desire to maintain an intimate atmosphere. The AFL is instead working with local pubs to establish fan zones for the Irish expatriate community. Kane stated that the league’s long-term goal is to eventually host such fixtures at major stadiums as the sport continues to grow.

Nathan Buckley’s Coaching Path

Geelong coach Chris Scott has praised assistant coach Nathan Buckley for his transparency during the recent recruitment process for the Tasmania Devils head coaching role, which was ultimately awarded to Ken Hinkley. Scott dismissed the idea that missing out on the position would damage Buckley’s reputation, noting that the decision likely came down to a matter of “fit” rather than capability. Buckley, who previously coached Collingwood to the 2018 Grand Final, indicated to Fox Footy that he is currently at a “fork in the road” regarding his career and is not expected to pursue the current vacancies at Carlton or Essendon.

Tony Modra’s Recovery

Former Adelaide Crows goal-kicking great Tony Modra has publicly thanked the medical teams at the South Coast District Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre for their role in his recovery following a severe truck accident in June. Modra, who sustained significant facial injuries when his vehicle struck a fallen tree, shared an update on Instagram confirming he has undergone extensive surgery, including the insertion of titanium plates. Modra remains second on the Crows’ all-time leading goal-kicker list with 440 goals.

Key Takeaways

• Bobby Hill: The Collingwood forward is expected to leave the club as he continues to manage personal matters away from the game.
• Tyson Stengle: Geelong is negotiating the future of the premiership forward, who is currently signed through 2029 but has not played at the AFL level this season.
• AFLW Growth: The league is prioritizing atmosphere over stadium capacity for the Australia v Ireland clash, opting for the sold-out North Sydney Oval.
• Coaching Carousel: Nathan Buckley is refocusing on his assistant role at Geelong following the appointment of Ken Hinkley as the inaugural Tasmania Devils coach.