AFL premiership winner Mark Hutchings has announced the sudden death of his partner, Hannah, just two days after she gave birth to their daughter, Sofia.
Hutchings shared the devastating news on social media, revealing that becoming a mother had been Hannah’s dream and expressing his deep sadness over her unexpected death.
“It is with deep sadness that I share the sudden loss of my beautiful partner, Hannah,” Hutchings wrote. “2 days following the birth of our daughter, Sofia. I am shattered. Her dream was to become a Mum, so it’s been incredibly difficult to take.
“Thank you for all of your messages of support, I can’t always reply to them all but I do appreciate them. Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much Hannah.”
Alongside the emotional statement, Hutchings shared a photograph of himself with Hannah while she was pregnant.
The former AFL star said he was “shattered” by the loss as he thanked friends, family and supporters for the messages of support he and his newborn daughter have received.
Tributes and messages of support have poured in from across the football community following the heartbreaking news.
“Love you Hutchy, always here for you,” Hutchings’ former teammate Jack Darling wrote.
Darling’s wife, Courtney, also shared an emotional message of support, writing: “Been thinking of you everyday Hutch, no words will ever be enough. Praying for you and your beautiful Sofia.”
West Coast star Bailey Williams responded to Hutchings’ social media post with a heart emoji, while Jamie Cripps and Jacob Blight also showed their support.
Former teammate Mark LeCras added: “Thinking of you mate. Sending all our love your way.”
Hutchings and Hannah are believed to have been together since 2023.
The 35-year-old retired from professional football the following year after making 120 AFL appearances during his career.
