Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell has firmly dismissed speculation linking him to a move to Tasmania, insisting he is content leading the Hawks. Mitchell, whose contract runs through the end of the 2027 season, is hopeful of securing an extension before the new year.
Mitchell adamant on Hawthorn future
Speaking on Wednesday, the 2012 Brownlow medallist made clear his commitment to Hawthorn. “I’m very happy at Hawthorn,” Mitchell said. “There’s a big difference between taking a phone call, which it’s rude not to, and discussing coaching other teams.”
Mitchell took over from four-time premiership coach Alastair Clarkson at the end of the 2021 season and has guided the Hawks to finals appearances in the past two years. He described speculation about his future as premature: “Absolutely.”
Rival clubs circling
Tasmania, Carlton and Essendon are all searching for new coaches, and Mitchell is considered a prime candidate if he tests the market. A report from 7SPORT expert Tom Morris suggested Mitchell was “gettable” for the right price and club. “My belief is Sam Mitchell is open for business and gettable for the right price and the right club,” Morris said on Channel 7’s The Agenda Setters.
Dale Thomas, the former Carlton and Collingwood star, urged the Blues to inquire about the 43-year-old coach.
Contract talks on track
Mitchell revealed that early contract discussions are progressing smoothly. “It’s all going exactly as it should, so I wouldn’t be reading anything into that,” he said. “There are conversations going on in the background, and I’m sure it’ll sort itself out at this coming period.”
When asked if he would like to sign a new deal ahead of 2027, Mitchell replied: “I mean, I assume so, but I’m not concerned. It’s not on my mind … there’s no story there.”
Zach Merrett speculation dismissed
Mitchell also declined to comment on ongoing speculation about recruiting former Essendon captain Zach Merrett. The Bombers blocked Merrett’s attempt to join Hawthorn in last year’s trade period, and reports suggest the midfielder may seek a move again at season’s end. “I won’t get into specifics about players. I never do that,” Mitchell said. “What I hope is our list management group is spending all of their working hours and half of their sleeping hours thinking about how we can improve our list.”
Hawks prepare for Giants clash
Hawthorn, sitting third with a 9-4 record, will host a struggling GWS outfit at the MCG on Friday night. The Hawks will be without Jarman Impey (hamstring) for at least two matches, while Jack Gunston (foot) and Conor Nash (neck) have been ruled out as a precaution.
