Will Day prepares for first AFL finals after injury setbacks

Hawthorn midfielder Will Day has expressed confidence ahead of his first AFL finals series following a period of significant injury setbacks. The 25-year-old previously missed the club’s finals campaigns in 2024 and 2025 due to recurring foot and shoulder issues.

Day described feeling “defeated” and “helpless” during his rehabilitation processes in the past. However, after an uninterrupted run of games since returning in Round 12 of the current season, he stated he has the most confidence in his body of his career.

Day’s 88th career game will be Hawthorn’s qualifying final against minor premiers Fremantle at Optus Stadium this Thursday night.