Geelong & Tyson Stengle: "We're Not a Charity"
Geelong coach Chris Scott has delivered a blunt assessment of Tyson Stengle's situation, stating the club's support for the forward has limits as he struggles to commit to his AFL career.
"There is a limit to our support with that because ... we're not a charity."
— Chris Scott, Geelong coach
Stengle, 27, has not played a senior match since the 2025 grand final and took leave during the pre-season. He kicked four goals in his only VFL match on June 13 but did not travel for the following VFL game.
Scott made clear that any decision on Stengle's return is not in his hands, as the forward has not been close to senior selection in 2026. He emphasized the club prioritizes both player welfare and high performance.
Stengle was an All-Australian in 2022 after kicking 53 goals in Geelong's premiership season. He has 160 goals in 93 matches for the Cats. His contract runs until the end of 2029.
Return Updates
Scott also indicated that Tom Stewart and Bailey Smith are likely to return for Thursday night's match against the Brisbane Lions.
Sydney Swans: Amartey Sidelined
Sydney Swans forward Joel Amartey suffered a partial tear of the Achilles tendon, ruling him out for approximately 10 weeks.
AFLW Legend Chelsea Randall Retires
Adelaide Crows AFLW captain Chelsea Randall has retired due to ongoing concussion issues. The 35-year-old five-time All-Australian and triple premiership captain captained the Crows for eight seasons.
"I am incredibly grateful to the Adelaide Football Club ... To have been part of its growth from the very beginning has been an honour."
— Chelsea Randall
Randall was an inaugural member of the Crows in 2017, won the AFLW's most courageous player award six times, and was the AFL Coaches Association champion player of the year in 2017. She was appointed a development coach for Adelaide's AFL men's side in 2022.
AFLW general manager Bree Brock said: "Chelsea's trailblazing role in growing the game across our state, as well as her lasting influence, should never be underestimated."