Physical Performance Manager Luke Boyd has provided an update on the injury status of Hawthorn’s playing list after Round 1.
Hawks veteran Paul Puopolo will have surgery on Friday after sustaining a hit to the jaw in the final quarter of the Hawks Round 1 win.
“Unfortunately, Poppy sustained a small jaw fracture after colliding with another player in our game against Brisbane. He’ll need surgery and will be looking to return to full training in about 6 weeks,” said Boyd.
Meanwhile, small defender Blake Hardwick received clearance from his surgeon this week to commence his rehab after surgery to repair a ruptured pectoral muscle.
“It’s good news for Blake that he can start getting back in to training now. He’s still got about 10 weeks of recovery in front of him but we’re really happy with how he is progressing and that he can now take his first steps towards a return to play.”
Had the Hawks been playing this week, Mitch Lewis would have been a test after suffering a minor ankle sprain during Round 2 of the Marsh Community Series in early-March.
“Mitch would have been a reasonable chance to play this week. Training for the boys does look a little different for the next month and Mitch has proven his fitness so will join back in to the full training program from this week.”
As the playing group head into a month of individual training as part of league-wide Covid-19 containment measures, Boyd is confident the playing group are well equipped to navigate this new training environment.
“One thing our group does really well is take responsibility for themselves and their fitness when they do take breaks, or when the program changes. They have proven this in many scenarios, over Christmas break, during our player work experience week last year and in the week we went to Buchan and Corryong earlier in the year.”
“The group is able to adapt to different programs and different ways of doing things and return to the club presenting well. We are confident that this period will be no different.”
“Players have each got individualized programs focused on strength and running as long as it is permitted. We’ve basically stripped our gym and given out every piece of equipment possible to make sure our players are equipped with what they need to make a full return to play when the time comes.”
Hawthorn’s players will be diligent and as ready as possible for a return to play when the time comes. The club’s primary focus at this time is on their health and the health of their families, as it is for all Hawthorn people, members and supporters.
Injury List
Mitch Lewis – Ankle – test
Mathew Walker – Hip – 2 weeks
Jacob Koschitzke – AC joint - 2-3 weeks
Josh Morris – Knee – 4-5 weeks
Paul Puopolo – Jaw – 6 weeks
Dan Howe – Foot – 6-8 weeks
Blake Hardwick – Chest – 9-10 weeks
Jarman Impey – ACL – indefinite
Will Golds – Knee – season
