Following a solid season with Eastern Ranges in the TAC Cup in 2000, Sam Mitchell’s dreams were in tatters after missing out on selection at the AFL Draft later that year. But rather than give up, Mitchell joined Hawthorn’s VFL affiliate club, the Box Hill Hawks in the hope of a second chance at being drafted as a mature age player.

His decision proved decisive as he not only helped Box Hill Hawks claim its first ever senior VFL Premiership in 2001, but his dreams became reality when he was drafted by Hawthorn Football Club.

In 2003, Mitchell not only inspired Box Hill to a second Grand Final in 3 years (which was lost) but amazingly went on to claim the JJ Liston Medal as the VFL’s Fairest & Best Player from just 11 appearances!

By 2006, Mitchell was elected Vice Captain, which he bettered by claiming the prestigious Peter Crimmins Medal as Hawthorn’s Best Player later that year and in 2008 he was offered the ultimate compliment by being named Captain of the Hawthorn Football Club.

Sam Mitchell is an icon at Box Hill Hawks so we have named this category after him to highlight the synergy between the two clubs.

We hope as a Hawthorn member, you too can support the pathway that supported Sam Mitchell by joining his very own Sam Mitchell Club!

For only $20 you will receive:

• A complimentary Box Hill Hawks Sticker
• Exclusive VRI membership privileges and discounts
• Inclusion on the mailing list to receive 4 Newsletter per year

Click here to download application form