All-Australian Geelong forward Tyson Stengle will make his long-awaited return to football this weekend following his selection in the club's VFL side.
Stengle hasn't played football at all in 2026, with his most recent game in last year's grand final against Brisbane.
He has spent multiple periods away from the Cats since the decider, dealing with personal troubles.
Stengle has returned to the club in recent weeks, but coach Chris Scott has been consistent in not rushing him back into the AFL.
“I'm not across completely everything, but seeing how he's been coming back into the club and the work he's done to get himself back to this point is awesome," assistant coach James Kelly said earlier this week.
“We love Tyson, and he's a brilliant person to have around the footy club. He's a bit cheeky and a bit funny, and he smiles.
“So it's good to see him back out on the track and just enjoying life. And if footy follows that, we're really happy for him.”
Stengle will return against Gold Coast at GMHBA Stadium on Saturday in a bid to return to the senior side.
Stengle has been a revelation since joining Geelong ahead of the 2022 season, earning All-Australian honours and claiming a premiership.
He has played 93 games for the Cats, on top of 14 for Adelaide and two for Richmond.
