AFL Casualty Ward: Hawks’ cruel blow as emerging superstar in doubt for Round 1

Hawthorn young gun Will Day is in doubt for Round 1 after suffering a stress fracture in his foot on the first day back at pre-season training.

Day and his teammates returned to Waverley Park on Wednesday without coach Sam Mitchell who is still recovering from a severe bout of pneumonia.

But the Hawks’ reigning best and fairest winner quickly had to leave a running session after feeling his discomfort in his foot.

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Scans confirmed the 22-year-old had suffered a stress fracture which will leave him spending “at least the next few weeks” in a moon boot, according to the club.

Further assessment will be required to determine when he can return but Hawthorn high performance manager Peter Burge made it clear the club would tread carefully with the exciting midfielder.

“Will felt some discomfort during training today, so we sent him off for scans, where they unfortunately showed a stress fracture in his foot,” Burge said.

“He’ll spend at least the next few weeks in a moon boot while we further assess the injury and determine the timeline for recovery. During this period, we will also consult with specialists to ensure we develop the best rehabilitation program for Will.

“Will is a young player that is going to have a long future at our football club, so we will be conservative in our approach to get him back on the field.”

Day played 21 games last season, only missing two due to suspension for a dangerous tackle.