Hawks reveal Will Day ‘setback’ after fears of serious ‘Baz ball’ drill injury at training

Star Hawthorn midfielder Will Day is expected to miss the start of the 2026 home-and-away season, after leaving a training session early in concerning scenes.

Day was seen on Thursday morning using his training jumper to support his right shoulder as he was assisted off the Hawks’ Dingley training venue by two club officials.

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The club confirmed on Thursday evening that the 24-year-old hasn’t suffered any bone damage from the incident, however will consult a surgeon in the coming week.

“This is a disappointing setback for Will, and we really feel for him at this time,” Hawthorn GM of Football Rob McCartney said via a club statement.

“Will is one of the most resilient people I know, and he has done everything possible to return to full fitness already this off-season.

“The Club is supporting Will through this process and will provide a further update on his recovery timeline once further consultation has been completed.”

While the club didn’t specifiy an exact return date, the Hawks did state he is expected to miss the start of the AFL season.

Day earlier moved with purpose and authority in running drills before players broke up into three separate groups for a ‘Baz ball’ drill — essentially a keepings off game where tackling is allowed.

It’s suspected Day suffered his injury during that drill.

“I didn’t see it (injury incident) and we’ve only just got off the track,” Hawks ruck Lloyd Meek told reporters post-training. “I think the club will release something when we’ve got a bit more info.

“Hopefully first and foremost he’s all good. He’s obviously a valued friend and teammate.

“We heard about it (during the session), a couple of leaders addressed it and it was just ‘no idea what it is yet, don’t jump at any shadows’.”

Day had been a summer standout for the Hawks in recent days after returning to full training earlier this week. He’d previously been on a modified program.

His strong sessions had been a welcome sight for Hawks fans, considering the star midfielder was restricted to just six games last season due to two bone stress injuries in his right foot.

“He’s been flying,” Meek said. “He’s put in a mountain of work. He looks great, he’s running really well.

“He’s been excited – I think he only did his first drill last week, so still just easing his way back into it. He’s put in a heap of work over this off-season, he’s been here a lot during his rehab and working really closely with the medical staff.

“He’s been in really good knick.”