Luke Hodge will miss Hawthorn’s Round 1 clash with Essendon after he was sanctioned by the leadership group for failing to meet club standards.



The sanction was handed down after Hodge failed to adequately inform the club of his absence from training earlier this week.



GM – Football Operations Jason Burt said Hodge is aware that his actions are not reflective of the standards expected by the football club.



“Luke understands that he did not meet the standards of Hawthorn on this occasion,” Burt said.



“Unfortunately there was a breakdown of communication on Luke’s behalf that led to a misunderstanding of his training expectations.



“The sanction is reflective of the standards and values of our club of which Luke has played a large role in creating and driving.”



Hodge is extremely disappointed in his actions and accepts the sanction handed down by the leadership group.



“I have prided myself on holding the playing group to very high standards and I am disappointed that I let them slip on this occasion,” said Hodge.



“Our club has established incredibly strong values and I fully support Rough and the leadership group in their decision and ensuring these values are upheld.”