HOPING FOR HIS COMEBACK!

Collingwood forward Bobby Hill is navigating a difficult period as he attempts to rebuild his AFL career after an extended absence. The 2023 Norm Smith Medallist has not played at the highest level since late in the 2025 season and is now focused on returning to training while managing significant personal matters.

Hill’s situation has drawn considerable attention in recent weeks. After time away from the club, including a trip to Western Australia, he rejoined Collingwood’s training sessions in mid-June 2026. His return marks a step forward, yet those close to the program have made clear that a swift return to senior football remains some distance away.

In May 2026, Hill and his former partner Georgia Devlin welcomed their third child, a daughter named Hazel. The birth followed the couple’s separation in 2025. Collingwood supported Hill by granting him personal leave around the time of the arrival. Devlin shared positive messages about the new baby, and the club publicly extended its congratulations to the family.

Hill has two sons from the relationship, and the arrival of Hazel represents an important personal milestone. Reports indicate the club has worked to accommodate his family responsibilities during this time while also addressing his football commitments.

Upon his return to training, Collingwood senior coach Craig McRae provided a candid update on Hill’s condition. Speaking on June 18, McRae described the player as “truthfully, battling.” He noted that Hill “has a bit going on, let’s be really clear. He has a lot going on.” The coach emphasised that Hill is viewed as a work in progress who remains a long way from playing footy again.

McRae stressed that substantial work lies ahead before Hill can return to competitive action. “There’s a lot of work to be done before he plays,” the coach said. He added that having Hill back in the building allows the club to support him and help him feel valued during what is clearly a challenging phase.

Hill has already shown some progress earlier in 2026 by appearing in three VFL matches. Those outings provided an opportunity to build match fitness, but consistency and full availability have remained issues amid his personal circumstances. The club has not set a firm timeline for his AFL return and appears content to proceed at a measured pace.

Hill played a memorable role in Collingwood’s 2023 premiership success. His four-goal performance and iconic mark in the Grand Final earned him the Norm Smith Medal as best player on the ground. That contribution cemented his status as one of the club’s most exciting small forwards and a fan favourite known for his pace and skill.

His absence from the senior side since round 22 of 2025 has been noticeable. Collingwood has continued to compete while dealing with other injury concerns, yet the loss of a dynamic forward with Hill’s proven big-game ability has been felt across the list.

Recent media reports have added another layer to the discussion surrounding Hill’s future. According to information attributed to Seven’s Tom Morris in late June, Hill has “opened his mind recently” to the possibility of leaving Collingwood at the end of the 2026 season. The reports suggest an acknowledgement from the player, his management, and the club that the current situation is not working as hoped.

Hill remains contracted to Collingwood until the end of 2030. Any potential departure would therefore require a trade or negotiated exit. The club has reportedly communicated clear expectations around goals for the remainder of the year, with an understanding that it would help facilitate a move if a suitable opportunity arises and mutual agreement is reached.

Throughout the process, Collingwood has reiterated its commitment to player welfare. McRae’s comments highlighted the importance of making Hill feel supported and appreciated while he addresses personal challenges. AFL clubs routinely provide resources for players facing difficult periods, and the Magpies appear to be following that approach in this instance.

The coming weeks will be important for Hill as he continues to train and work through the issues affecting him. Progress will depend on both his physical condition and his ability to manage the personal demands that have kept him sidelined. The club has signalled patience while also maintaining focus on preparing the broader list for the remainder of the season.

For Collingwood supporters, Hill’s situation represents a mix of concern and hope. The 25-year-old possesses the talent to make a meaningful contribution when fully available, and many are eager to see him return to the form that made him a premiership hero in 2023. The club’s messaging suggests a genuine desire to see him succeed both personally and professionally.

At the same time, the speculation about his long-term future at the club adds uncertainty. With a long contract in place, Collingwood holds a strong negotiating position should trade interest emerge from other clubs. How the situation develops will depend on Hill’s progress on the training track and any discussions that occur between the player, his management, and the football department.

Hill’s story reflects the pressures faced by modern AFL players who must balance elite sporting demands with family responsibilities and personal wellbeing. The club has chosen to handle the matter with discretion while providing public updates only when necessary. This approach allows Hill space to focus on his recovery without constant external scrutiny.

As June draws to a close, the football community continues to monitor developments closely. Hill’s return to training is a positive sign, yet McRae’s honest assessment makes clear that a full comeback will require time, patience, and continued support. The coming months will reveal how successfully he can navigate these challenges and whether a return to AFL football is achievable in the near future.

Collingwood’s season continues with its own objectives, and the club must manage Hill’s situation alongside the needs of the rest of the playing group. The focus remains on ensuring the player receives the necessary assistance while the team prepares for upcoming matches. Hill’s eventual role, whether at Collingwood or elsewhere, will be determined by the progress he makes in the weeks and months ahead.

For now, the emphasis is on steady improvement and realistic expectations. Hill has demonstrated resilience throughout his career, and those around him are hopeful that the same qualities will help him overcome the current obstacles. The club has expressed its willingness to support him through the process, whatever the eventual outcome.

The situation surrounding Bobby Hill remains fluid. His recent return to training offers encouragement, but coach comments and external reports indicate that both short-term availability and longer-term club alignment are still to be resolved. Supporters and observers will be watching for further positive updates as Hill works towards regaining full fitness and form.