Luke Hodge has confirmed he plans to join the Brisbane Lions in 2018.
Hodge informed the Hawks of his desire to sign with the Lions on Thursday.
“Luke has been an incredible servant of Hawthorn Football Club and we will support him and his family in the next step of their journey,” Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson told hawthornfc.com.au.
“We respect Luke’s decision to take up this new opportunity presented by the Lions and understand the personal development opportunities it provides.
“Luke, Lauren, Cooper, Chase and Leo will always be welcome at Hawthorn and remain an integral part of our family.
“We look forward to celebrating Luke’s decorated career in the brown and gold at the Peter Crimmins Medal on Saturday night.”
Hodge won four premierships with the Hawks and captained the club for six seasons between 2011-2016.
He played 305 games for Hawthorn over his 16-year career with the club, and is expected to sign a two-year deal with the Lions.