AFL 2023: Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell tests positive for Covid ahead of West Coast clash

The loser of Sunday’s Hawks-Eagles clash will be in the box seat to claim standout draft prospect Harley Reid – and Hawthorn’s week hasn’t started well.

Hawthorn senior coach Sam Mitchell has tested positive to Covid-19 and will stay away from the club for a few days.

Mitchell will hand the reins over to his assistants to lead training for a few days while he recovers at home after testing positive on Saturday night.

The club will closely monitor the playing group and staff for any symptoms as the club prepares to take on West Coast on Sunday in Launceston.

Sam Mitchell has tested positive to Covid. Picture: Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos

Players and staff are no longer required to submit negative test results to train or play each week following two years of a stringent testing program throughout the pandemic.

But Hawthorn will closely assess those who have been in close contact with Mitchell including the senior playing group.

Mitchell tested positive to COVID-19 in the wake of the Hawks’ loss to Melbourne on Saturday evening.

Mitchell is recovering well at home and is expected to return to the club prior to Sunday’s clash against the Eagles.

The two clubs are in the bottom two spots on the ladder with one win each.

The loser of Sunday’s match will become favourite for the wooden spoon and will be in the box seat to claim this year’s No.1 draft prospect and top talent Harley Reid.

Originally published as AFL 2023: Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell tests positive for Covid ahead of West Coast clash