20 January, 2026
hawthorn-s-will-day-to-undergo-surgery-miss-first-half-of-afl-season

Hawthorn Football Club’s star player, Will Day, faces a significant setback after dislocating his right shoulder during pre-season training. Following the injury, he underwent surgery and is now expected to miss the first half of the 2024 AFL season.

The incident occurred in late January 2024, during an intensive training session as the team prepared for the upcoming season. According to club officials, the surgery was deemed necessary to ensure a full recovery. The club has not provided a specific timeline for Day’s return but emphasized the importance of a comprehensive rehabilitation process.

Hawthorn’s head coach, Sam Mitchell, expressed his disappointment regarding the injury. In a statement, he remarked, “Will has been a crucial part of our plans this season. His absence will be felt, but we need to focus on his recovery and ensure he returns stronger.”

Day had a standout performance in the previous season, contributing significantly to Hawthorn’s midfield strength. His absence during the early rounds will pose challenges for the team as they seek to build momentum in the competitive AFL landscape.

The injury highlights the physical demands placed on players during pre-season preparations. As teams gear up for the new season, maintaining player health and fitness becomes a paramount concern for coaching staff.

Fans and analysts alike will closely follow Day’s progress in the coming weeks. Hawthorn will need to adjust their strategies to compensate for his absence, as they aim to secure a strong start in the AFL season.

As the club navigates this challenging period, the focus will remain on supporting Day through his recovery process. The team hopes to have him back on the field and contributing to their success as soon as possible.