Tom Hawkins may miss the start of the 2023 season with the forward set for foot surgery.
AFL Media’s Josh Gabelich is reporting that the injury could force the 34-year-old to have a delayed start to the next campaign, while Geelong themselves say Hawkins’ return timeline will be confirmed post-surgery.
The Cats also revealed that Hawkins carried the injury throughout the club’s finals campaign and premiership victory.
Geelong GM of football Simon Lloyd says that the club made the call that surgery was the best option available after consulting with specialists.
“Our medical team and Tom have gone through an extensive process which has included consultation with specialists to determine the best approach and have come to the decision for Tom to undergo surgery this week,” Lloyd said via a statement.
“Tom is incredibly meticulous in his training and preparation, and we know he’ll have the same application to his recovery.
“We will take the time and diligence required to have him return to playing in early 2023.”
Hawkins will return to Geelong for pre-season training in December alongside his premiership teammates.