Geelong forward Tyson Stengle has faced criticism after missing a flight to a VFL match on Saturday, reportedly after being seen at a nightclub 36 hours prior. Eyewitnesses told Channel Seven that Stengle was at the Electric Nightclub in Geelong before his scheduled travel with the Cats' VFL side to play Southport in Queensland.
Stengle, 27, has not played for the senior Geelong AFL team this year, having been granted leave by the club to address personal issues. This latest incident has sparked further concern about his standing with the club. Former AFL player Kane Cornes commented on the situation, stating that Stengle's actions were a "major slap in the face" to the club, given their past support. "We know he's got trouble. We know there's personal issues," Cornes said.
This is not the first time Stengle has been involved in off-field controversy. In July 2024, he was hospitalized after reportedly being found unresponsive at a Geelong nightclub. He joined the Cats in 2022 after being released by the Adelaide Crows. The Crows parted ways with Stengle after he was stood down following an incident involving an illicit substance and a separate charge of drink driving. He had also previously received four-game suspensions on two occasions during his career.
Stengle has played 109 AFL games, scoring 175 goals. The recent incident raises questions about his future with the club as he continues to navigate personal challenges.