Geelong Extends Tyson Stengle’s Leave as Pre-Season Resumes

GEELONG: The Geelong Cats have confirmed that All-Australian forward Tyson Stengle has been granted additional leave away from the club as the team returns to pre-season training following the Christmas break.

Stengle, 27, had initially commenced his break earlier than the rest of the playing group in December to address private personal issues. While the club expects the star forward to return in the “short-term,” they have reinforced that his immediate wellbeing takes precedence over training requirements.

In a statement released on Monday night, Geelong’s Executive General Manager of Football, Andrew Mackie, emphasized the club’s supportive stance.

“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,” Mackie said.

Since joining Geelong in 2021, Stengle has become a cornerstone of the Cats’ forward line. His journey to the club followed a stint in the SANFL after being delisted by the Adelaide Crows due to off-field challenges.

His resurgence at Geelong has been nothing short of spectacular:

Won an AFL Premiership and earned All-Australian honors.

Solidified his long-term future at the club by signing a massive five-year contract extension.

Stengle is the second high-profile player to be granted personal leave this month. His announcement follows a similar move by Collingwood, who granted Bobby Hill time away from pre-season training just three days ago.

The club has requested privacy for Stengle during this period and will provide further updates regarding his return to the main training group when appropriate.