Young Hawk Jai Serong will be sidelined for at least two months after being diagnosed with a rare heart condition.
Hawthorn on Thursday night released a statement, confirming Serong, 20, was sent to hospital last weekend after developing chest pain last weekend.
A specialist sports cardiologist then a diagnosed Serong with of pericarditis, which is an inflammation of the saclike tissue the heart lies.
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Hawthorn club doctor Liam West said the cardiologist believed Serong developed pericarditis – a rare condition that can affect young adults in particular – after “a viral infection that didn’t show symptoms”.
West said Serong’s heart was fine, but the condition meant he had to enter a period of strict exercise restriction while taking medication throughout his recovery.
Serong will only be able to walk and stretch for the next 30 days. He’ll then undergo more tests to determine whether he can increase his training loads.
“Jai is obviously shattered,” Dr West said. “And we all are for him.”
“We have been working closely with a Specialist Sports Cardiologist to ensure Jai’s health is paramount to how we navigate this issue. The Cardiologist believes Jai developed pericarditis after a viral infection that didn’t show symptoms.
“Jai is no longer experiencing chest pain but is obviously disappointed that he will need a period of time out of training and match play.
“We will ensure that Jai receives the best in medical and wellbeing support during this period.
“We would also ask that the privacy of Jai and his family is respected through this time.
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“He is frustrated … but also relieved he will be able to get back out on the track and play during the season.”
Serong will also work with the Hawks’ psychologist and wellbeing team as he begins his recovery.
Serong, the younger brother of Fremantle star Caleb Serong, was drafted by the Hawks with Pick 52 in the 2021 national draft.
Serong played the last three games of the 2022 season, including one where he was the unused sub. He kicked his first goal against Richmond in Round 22.
