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What seemed impossible just a few days ago is now fact – Sam Mitchell has joined the West Coast Eagles in a trade away from the Hawthorn Hawks.
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Mitchell was traded from Hawthorn along with picks No.54 and No.72 to the Eagles for picks No.52, No.70 and No.88.
“I’m really glad that it’s all done and very excited to move over, get the family settled and get into it,” Mitchell said.
“My level of respect for the West Coast Eagles as a football club has been high for a long time.
“The fact the process was so smooth and seamless shows the level of professionalism and respect from all parties.
“The list is a really exciting one; I’m really looking forward to getting on the training track with some of their young up-and-coming players.
“Clearly I’m coming over to play first and foremost to help win silverware for the football club. I’m coming for a good reason and I want success.
“I’m pretty passionate about the coaching and development side of the game as well, so in addition I hope I can help some of these young guys and we can make each other better players.”
West Coast’s football manager Craig Vozzo said:
“Sam is an ultimate professional who brings a wealth of experience to our list and we see him as a huge asset, both on and off the field for our developing players.
“We are excited with what he will provide our team next year and, hopefully, beyond. He has been preparing for a coaching career for some time and we will ensure he transitions smoothly into our coaching group at the end of his playing career, whenever that may be.
“We commend all parties on the honest and mature approach to this mutually beneficial deal and we welcome Sam, Lyndall, Emmy, Scarlett and Smith to the West Coast Eagles.”
Hawthorn’s list manager Graham Wright said:
“After discussions with Sam, his management and the West Coast Eagles, we believe we have reached a deal that is in the best interests of all involved.
“Sam has always envisaged coaching in his future and a move to West Coast will enable him to make that first step.
“We are a club that encourages growth and development and we are happy to help facilitate Sam’s wishes.
“The club would like to thank Sam for his magnificent contribution over the past 15 years and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson said:
“Sam has made an invaluable contribution to Hawthorn Football Club over the past 15 years.
“As a past captain, 300 game player and a four time premiership player, Sam has cemented himself as a decorated servant of our club.
“He is very popular member amongst players, coaches and staff and we wish him, Lyndall, Smith, Emmerson and Scarlett all the best in their new adventure.”
Roarers, who do you think wins this trade? For every trade this off-season, we’re asking you to rate the trade – vote below, and we’ll release all the results at the end of trade period.
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Welcome to West Coast, Sam Mitchell!!
Trade details: https://t.co/GE7syaTR8h pic.twitter.com/Iait5rCeSV
— West Coast Eagles (@WestCoastEagles) October 13, 2016
Sam Mitchell will depart the Hawks after a deal was reached with West Coast today.
Full details: https://t.co/t4icFt4B7r pic.twitter.com/8dpdXx03TB
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) October 13, 2016