Collingwood Star Bobby Hill Mourns the Heartbreaking Loss of His Sister Sammy
The Collingwood Football Club and the AFL community are united in grief following the devastating news shared by Collingwood star Bobby Hill. Hill has announced the passing of his beloved sister, Sammy, who tragically lost her battle with cancer. The news has left the football world shaken, as Sammy was not only a cherished sister but also a close family friend of Carlton defender Zac Williams.
For Hill, the news marks one of the most difficult moments of his young career. Known for his energetic style of play and infectious spirit on and off the field, Hill has been a source of joy for Collingwood supporters since joining the club. But away from the spotlight, the 24-year-old has faced private battles that now come to the surface as he grapples with the heartbreaking loss of someone so close to him.
Sammyโs journey with cancer was marked by remarkable bravery and resilience. Despite the challenges of her illness, she maintained an unwavering spirit, inspiring those around her with her courage. Family members, friends, and teammates frequently spoke of her positivity, even in the darkest moments. For Bobby, she was not only a sister but a pillar of support throughout his football career.
Zac Williams, a fellow AFL player and long-time family friend, is also mourning deeply. The bond between the Williams and Hill families runs back years, creating a connection that went far beyond football. Williams, who himself has faced hardship after injuries in recent seasons, has expressed profound sadness at the loss, offering his love and support to the Hill family during this unimaginable time.
The Collingwood Football Club has also released a statement, expressing their condolences and standing firmly behind their star forward. The club emphasised that family always comes first and that Bobby will be given all the time and space he needs to process his grief. Teammates, including captain Darcy Moore, have also reached out with words of love and support, highlighting the strong bond within the Magpiesโ playing group.
The wider AFL community has joined in solidarity, with players, fans, and rival clubs offering heartfelt messages. Social media has been flooded with tributes to Sammy, celebrating her bravery and remembering her as a vibrant, loving presence. For many, her loss is a reminder of the human side of athletesโ livesโthe struggles and heartaches that often remain unseen behind the roar of the crowd and the glare of stadium lights.
For Bobby Hill, this tragedy comes in the midst of a career that has already been defined by resilience. Just last year, he overcame his own health battle after being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2022. His successful recovery and inspirational return to the game was celebrated across the AFL, particularly when he played a starring role in Collingwoodโs premiership-winning campaign in 2023, even earning the Norm Smith Medal. That triumph highlighted Hillโs strength, but now he faces another test of character as he mourns his sisterโs passing.
Fans of the game have been quick to remind him that he is not alone. Messages of support from Collingwoodโs faithful, along with voices from across rival clubs, reflect the unique unity of the AFL family in moments of tragedy. Though teams battle fiercely on the field, there is a shared understanding that life off the field often presents the toughest challenges.
As the Hill family grieves, the AFL community will no doubt continue to rally around them. Sammyโs memory will live on not only through her loved ones but also through the inspiration she provided to all who knew her story. Her battle with cancer, fought with dignity and determination, has touched many hearts.
For Bobby Hill, the coming weeks will be about family, reflection, and finding strength in the memory of his sister. His story has always been one of resilience, and though this chapter is filled with immense pain, it is clear he will continue to carry Sammyโs spirit with him both in life and on the football field.
In the end, the loss of Sammy is a tragedy that transcends sport. It reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of love, family, and community. While the Collingwood star will return to football when he is ready, for now, the AFL world pauses to stand alongside him, mourning the loss of a brave young woman whose impact will never be forgotten.
