World2 min(s) read
Two days after the birth of his first child, a former Australian rules football star announced the tragic death of his partner.
Ex-West Coast Eagles player Mark Hutchings released a tear-jerking statement revealing that his partner Hannah had suddenly passed away.
The social media post showed pictures of her pregnancy shoot, with the pair dressed in white with their arms around each other and their dog standing by their sides.
Earlier this week, the young couple welcomed a daughter named Sofia. Just days later, on Thursday evening, Hutchings wrote: “It is with deep sadness that I share the sudden loss of my beautiful partner, Hannah.
“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.”
The comments section was quickly flooded with friends, family and followers paying tribute and sending messages of support.
Thanking his 16,000 followers for their condolences, he admitted that although the AFL star may not reply to many messages, he is grateful for them.
Hutchings ended the statement with: “Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much, Hannah.”
One follower wrote: “My gosh I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest condolences to you and your sweet baby girl.”
Another added: “My heart breaks for you and Sofia. Sending strength and love during this extremely difficult time.”
The couple had reportedly been together since 2022, just a year after he retired from the AFL at the end of 2021.
Hutchings played 120 AFL games for the Eagles and was part of the 2018 team that won a premiership by defeating Collingwood in the Grand Final.
After being drafted out of Western Australia by St Kilda as a rookie in 2010, Hutchings returned to play for Perth.
His former teammates also shared their sympathies underneath his post.
Jack Darling wrote: “Love you Hutchy, always here for you.”
Darling’s wife Courtney added: “Been thinking of you every day, Hutch, no words will ever be enough. Praying for you and your beautiful Sofia.”
Retired ruckman Nic Naitanui said: "You'll be the best Dad for your beautiful daughter, we got you."
No further details about the cause of Hannah's death were provided.
