The Geelong Cats are standing firmly behind small forward Tyson Stengle, who has taken extra time away from the club to manage a personal issue.
While the 27-year-old’s absence has attracted attention, veteran midfielder Tom Atkins reassured that Stengle has the full support of his teammates and is expected to return to training “in the short term.”
“We love Tyson, and we’re just hopeful that everything’s okay with him and with his family,” Atkins said. “So hopefully he’s able to get the time that he needs, and then when he comes back, he’ll be ready to go.”
Atkins, who enjoyed a breakout 2025 season—breaking the all-time record for tackles in a season and achieving a career-high average disposals—is set to benefit from added midfield support this year. New recruit James Worpel, who joined the Cats from Hawthorn as a free agent, has already made an immediate impression, while Tanner Bruhn returns following a stand-down last year after police charges were withdrawn.
“I’ve enjoyed working with ‘Worps’. Just having his experience in there has been great,” Atkins said. “He’s a really strong, physical player with great endurance. He’s running well, transitioning well, and his addition is only going to make us better.”
The discussion around player injuries after the off-season has been a hot topic, especially after high-profile players like Clayton Oliver, Darcy Moore, and Jeremy Howe suffered soft-tissue injuries. Port Adelaide champion Kane Cornes has previously suggested that too much time away from the club increases injury risk.
Atkins, however, disagreed with that perspective.
“I really enjoy having a break – I think I need it. It’s not like we’re just sitting on the couch. We’re training, sometimes five times a week, with running and weight sessions. By the time we return, I’d say everyone is physically prepared, and that’s consistent across our group as well.”
The Cats returned to pre-season training last week after a festive break, with the club focused on integrating new talent and preparing for another competitive season. With Stengle expected back soon, Geelong fans will be hoping the small forward can regain his full fitness and form ahead of the 2026 AFL season.
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