Injury crisis at the Hawks.

Hawthorn star midfielder Will Day is set to be sidelined for up to four months after a stress fracture was discovered in his foot. This is a major blow for the Hawks, considering Day was expected to have a breakout year. Throughout the Hawks' first four games this season, Day has averaged one goal and 23 disposals, playing a key role in their four consecutive wins. 

Will Day Celebrating a goal (2025) 

The Hawks are expected to regain midfielder James Worpel this week for their Gather Round clash against Port Adelaide, creating a great opportunity for other Hawthorn players to step up and secure a permanent role in the team.

Young guns Josh Ward and Cam Mackenzie have had brilliant starts to the season, playing midfield minutes and running off the half-back flank. This provides an opportunity for either of them to get more time in centre stoppages and take on a more attacking role, similar to what Day was providing.  

The Hawks may decide to rotate other players through the midfield, including Karl Amon, Harry Morrison, or Massimo D'Ambrosio. However, this doesn’t seem like the best long-term solution for Hawthorn. It would be better for the club to provide an opportunity for a VFL player to step up.

Henry Hustwaite would be a great option. He’s had a cracking start to the Hawks' VFL season, including 30 and 38 disposal games. Hustwaite has only played six AFL games over two years at Hawthorn, but he could slot in nicely to this fast-paced midfield.  

Henry Hustwaite with teammates (2023) 

With a relatively less challenging month ahead, with opponents including Port Adelaide, Geelong, West Coast, and Richmond, it provides the Hawks with a perfect opportunity to give someone like Hustwaite a chance.

Alternatively, Seamus Mitchell, who has been playing plenty of midfield minutes in the VFL and has AFL experience, could also be a strong option. There’s no reason why the Hawks shouldn’t bring in a young, up-and-coming player from the VFL.