The partner of former West Coast Eagles player Mark Hutchings has died two days after giving birth to their daughter, prompting a wave of support from the AFL community.
Hutchings announced the news in an Instagram post on Thursday, saying the loss left him "shattered".
"It is with deep sadness that I share the sudden loss of my beautiful partner, Hannah," he wrote.
"Her dream was to become a Mum, so it's been incredibly difficult to take.
"Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much Hannah."
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Former and current West Coast Eagles players, staff and the club have been been in contact with Hutchings to support him.
The announcement has left a mark on many in the Australian sporting community with more than 1200 people leaving a comment on the post.
Former West Coast stars Jeremy McGovern and Nic Naitanui and Geelong great Joel Selwood were among those wrapping their arms around Hutchings in the comment section.
"You'll be the best Dad for your beautiful daughter, we got you," Naitanui wrote.
Hutchings played 120 games for West Coast before retiring in 2021, having been selected in the 2012 national draft at pick 60.
He became an AFL premiership player in 2018, helping the Eagles secure a five point win over Collingwood in what has been described as one of the best games in AFL/VFL history.
Former Adelaide Crows AFLW player and commentator Abbey Holmes joined the chorus of support on the social media post.
"Oh my gosh. I'm so sorry Hutch! Just devastating. Sending so much love and strength to you and Sofia xx," she said.
