Geelong forward Stengle signs five-year AFL deal

ALL-Australian forward Tyson Stengle has ended speculation about his AFL future, signing a five-year deal with Geelong.

The new contract commits the 25-year-old, a 2022 premiership player, to the Cats until the end of 2029.

There had been plenty of talk about where Stengle might play his football next year, given he would qualify for free agency at the end of the season, with St Kilda said to be interested.

Stengle – who kicked three goals in Saturday night’s big win over Essendon -has scored 31 goals in 15 games this season.

He has missed only four games since joining the Cats for 2022, when his AFL career appeared close to over because of off-field issues.

Adelaide had delisted him in early 2021, but Stengle starred at SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens that season as they won a second successive premiership.

Stengle’s work on and off the field that season was enough to convince the Cats he deserved one last AFL chance.

Retired Indigenous star Eddie Betts was a crucial mentor for Stengle when the youngster arrived at Kardinia Park.

Stengle immediately repaid Geelong’s faith, kicking 53 goals in the 2022 season to earn All-Australian honours as the Cats won their most-recent flag.

He started his career at Richmond and has played 75 games across his three senior clubs.

“We are thrilled Tyson has recommitted to the Cats,” Geelong’s football boss Andrew Mackie said in a statement.

“Tyson continues to show his talent and brilliance on-field and we look forward to watching him continue to flourish as a person and footballer.

“He is much loved by his teammates and the broader club, and we love what he contributes to our football program.”