Second-year Hawk Calsher Dear has been ruled out for over the first month of Hawthorn's 2025 campaign as the 19-year-old continues to deal with a stress fracture in his lower back.
The bone stress was uncovered in December last year, however his timeline for recovery was yet to be determined.
The son of 1991 Norm Smith medallist Paul Dear inked a one-year extension until the end of 2026 following his remarkable debut campaign that saw him kick 25 goals from 17 appearances, including three majors in Hawthorn's elimination final win.
Dear has been undertaking a rehab program since the bone stress was first discovered, with the Hawks remaining diligent in ensuring the forward makes a full recovery before returning to train at full capacity.
Hawthorn Head Doctor Liam West said the Hawks have been 'meticulous' with Dear's recovery to reduce any potential future complications and reinjuries.
โFrom the outset, we have been very careful and cautious with this injury, giving Calsher the best chance to return to full fitness as quickly as possible whilst allowing the bone to fully heal,โ West said.
โWe are now at a stage where Calsher is progressing through his rehab so he can begin running again in a few weeks before we progressively increase his load.
โGiven Calsher is just 19 years of age and has a long future ahead of him at our club, we will ensure we are meticulous throughout his recovery program.โ
Dear is set to miss out on at least the first four fixtures for Hawthorn against Sydney, Essendon, Carlton and Port Adelaide, with a return post-Gather Round meaning Dear could be available in time for the Round 5 Easter Monday matchup against Geelong.
