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Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell has been rewarded for the Hawks’ resurgence with a two-year contract extension, tying him to the AFL club until the end of 2027.
Mitchell’s original deal was due to expire at the end of 2025, but it has now been extended after Hawthorn climbed the ladder this year.
The Hawks started the season 0–5, finishing 13th and 16th during Mitchell’s first two years.
But Hawthorn won 14 of their next 18 matches to book their place in the finals for the first time since 2018.
Hawthorn defeated the Western Bulldogs by 37 points in the elimination final, the Hawks’ first finals win since claiming the flag in 2015.
But their bid to reach the preliminary final fell short, with Hawthorn losing to Port Adelaide by three points in a thrilling semi-final.
Hawthorn have already recruited St Kilda defender Josh Battle via free agency ahead of next season, and they are set to acquire star Eagles backman Tom Barrass during the trade period.
The Hawks have been installed as one of the 2025 premiership favourites.
Hawthorn chief executive Ash Clyne said the decision to extend Mitchell’s contract was a no-brainer based on what he had done since the beginning of his tenure.
“Sam has had a significant impact during his first three seasons as senior coach and we are incredibly excited about the direction of our club under his leadership,” Klein said in a statement.
“Having witnessed the growth and development of our entire football program under Sam’s tutelage, there is no better person to lead us as senior coach for 2025 and beyond.
“Sam’s innate ability to teach, inspire and motivate are all key aspects of the special culture that has been established under his leadership, where our players are supported to realize their potential.”
© AAP
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