Axed Hawthorn defender Seamus Mitchell has found a new home, joining SANFL side South Adelaide Panthers for the 2026 season.
Mitchell first joined the Hawks via the 2020 National Draft with Pick 29, but was forced to bide his time before making his debut, ultimately debuting in 2023, where he would amass half of his 28 senior appearances.
It would be Mitchell's career best year, averaging 16.6 disposals and 4.7 marks per game.
The following year as the Hawks surged towards the finals, Mitchell added another 10 outings but was left out of the senior side during September.
The acquisitions of Josh Battle and Tom Barrass further pushed the 23-year-old down the defensive ranks, and was seen a measly four times in 2025, two as the sub.
Despite a disappointing four-win 2025 campaign, Mitchell is excited by the Panthers' playing list and hopes to elevate South Adelaide back into Finals contention for the first time in four years.
"I'm super excited and grateful to be joining South Adelaide as I think the young and talented group are heading in the right direction," Mitchell said.
"It's obviously a huge year for the whole club so hopefully we can build something special.
"I hope to look to attack the game and use my speed and ball use, but also be reliable defensively and get my job done."
Panthers senior Coach Jarrad Wright highlighted the valuable experience Mitchell will add to South Adelaide's defensive group, given his elite form at state level.
Mitchell has averaged over 24 disposals per game in the VFL since 2024, as well as close to six intercepts and eight marks per game.
"We're rapt to bring Seamus to the club," Wright said.
"He's a tough, resilient defender who uses the ball well and will provide real drive out of defence.
"Having spent the past five years in a strong AFL program, he adds valuable experience and performance to our team."
Mitchell joins axed St Kilda defender Arie Schoenmaker at the Panthers as the club's list for 2026 begins to take shape.
