Hawthorn Football Club has accepted the resignation of GM – Football Operations James Fantasia, who departs the Club for personal reasons. 

Fantasia has been on an extended period of sick leave for the past few weeks.

Hawthorn CEO Stuart Fox said while it was disappointing to farewell Fantasia, the Club wished him all the best.

“We respect that James has put his health and family first in making this decision, and we are disappointed to lose someone with his experience,” Fox said.

“While James was a part of the Hawthorn family for only a short time we thank him for his service and wish him well in the future.”  

Fantasia outlined his disappointment in departing the Club.

“Given the stage of the season I didn’t want to let the Club down, but unfortunately I have had to make the difficult decision to leave due to health reasons,” Fantasia said.

"Under medical advisement, I will take some time to focus on my recovery before looking to return to work. Whilst my health condition is not of a critical nature a full recovery is my priority".

Head of Coaching and Development Chris Fagan will continue to act as GM – Football Operations.