AFL in shock as GWS Giants star Bobby Hill is diagnosed with cancer aged just 22 and due for surgery

GWS Giants forward Bobby Hill has been diagnosed with testicular cancer aged just 22 after playing in his side’s 110-96 loss to Brisbane on Saturday.

Hill is set to undergo surgery this coming Tuesday and will be out of action indefinitely while he recovers.

The former Perth Demon was aware of his prognosis before the round 11 clash and chose to play, providing valuable minutes and gutsy attack in a close game. 

The Giants would’ve been short on small forwards given Hill’s absence, yet he was keen to get on-field for what could have been his final game this season. 

GWS general manager Jason McCartney said the club will rally behind the star.

‘Bobby and his family have our full support, as always, as they go through this period,’ McCartney said.

‘His health and wellbeing is our absolute priority and he’ll have the best medical care as he undergoes surgery on Tuesday and beyond.

Hill has become a fan favourite known for his electric pace and marking ability in his 41 games with the Giants

‘There’ll be a period of time for him to recover before further medical assessment to understand if any additional steps are required.

‘Bobby is in good spirits and knows he has the support and love of the entire GIANTS family.’

Hill became a father in December last year when his partner Georgia Devlin gave birth to their son Bobby Junior. 

The proud Indigenous man requested a trade to Essendon at the end of last season for family reasons, but remained at GWS when the deal fell through.

GWS released an Instagram post on Sunday morning with the caption: ‘@bobby_hill37 will take an indefinite break from football after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, he has our full love and support during this time.’ 

The Giants have pledged their full support to Hill as he battles the potentially deadly condition

The exciting speedster scored a goal and made four tackles in the round 11 clash against the Lions on Saturday.

Hill debuted with the Giants in 2019 and has played 41 games with the club, becoming known as a fan favourite for his electric feet and aerial skills.

He isn’t the only AFL star who has been struck down by the potentially deadly condition.

Carlton defender Sam Docherty was diagnosed with testicular cancer in August last year, but beat it and returned to the field in early March, scoring a goal in his first game back. 

The 28-year-old overcame cancer twice, after medical professionals and coaches were unsure of his future in the game. 

GWS have lost eight of the 11 season games and sit on 12 competition points with Adelaide.