Bobby Hill ready to step up and lead Magpies attack

With Collingwood’s attack decimated by injuries, Bobby Hill is ready to stand up and be counted – again.

The 2023 Norm Smith Medalist is one of the most experienced members of Collingwood’s forward line ahead of Saturday’s clash with Adelaide.

Key forwards Brody Mihocek and Dan McStay, along with small forwards Jamie Elliott and Beau McCreery, are all sidelined.

With encouragement from coach Craig McRae and forwards coach Scott Selwood, Hill, 24, is using the opportunity to become a leader up front.

“I always try to speak up a little bit more. But being in the system a little bit now, this is the time where I can put that in my pocket and obviously be a leader as well,” Hill told AAP.

“So it’s amazing. But all the boys know their roles and we all bond with each other and vibe. It makes it a lot easier.

“It’s good – I’m talking a little more, getting the leadership (role) and trying to become a leader now.

“But I enjoy the fact that the boys are coming in and playing. It’s fun to see Joe Richards doing his thing and Reef (McInnes) coming back and a new role for Fin Macrae, it’s fun to watch.

“Then obviously you learn the way they play and again that happens with injuries and that’s football. But to have that next man up mentality, it’s great that they’re ready for that.”

Hill, a proud Whadjuk-Ballardong Noongar man, is particularly keen to make an impact in Saturday’s match, which will be part of the Sir Doug Nicholls Round.

Collingwood’s indigenous guernsey was designed by uncle Trevor Davis, father of former Magpies player and head of cultural development at the club, Leon Davis.

“It’s always a special moment for all of us Indigenous people, the Sir Doug Nicholls Round,” Hill said.

“It’s something I’m looking forward to playing in and having the jersey too, made by Pop Trevor, who I grew up hearing stories about, and wearing it for him – amazing.”

Hill plans to have his young sons Bobby Jnr and Malakai over for the day.

“Hopefully I can get them to come out with me, that would be fun,” he said.

“To make a goal and do a dance would be nice – and put on a show.”

Since leaving GWS for Collingwood at the end of 2022, Hill has been enjoying life in Melbourne, where he enjoys a close relationship with his cousin and St Kilda gun, Bradley Hill.

“Obviously I wanted to have family around and he plays a big role in (being able to) love football again,” Hill said.

“Having it literally around the corner and seeing our little ones grow up together is incredible.

“When we’re together, we always laugh. I enjoy that.”