The competition highlighted 10 elite athletes who gave insights into how they juggled fatherhood and elite sporting commitments, with this year's competition attracting more than 5000 votes with Mitchell attracting 28 per cent of the votes.
Mitchell’s win keeps the title in AFL hands, following on from retired Sydney Swans captain Brett Kirk’s victory last year.
The doting father of three was pleased with the announcement and hopes the win is a sign of things to come in September as the Hawks head into their 2011 finals campaign.
“This is a great honour,” Mitchell said. “It’s the last thing on your mind as a parent to win an accolade like this, but it’s a nice bonus for doing something I love.”
After expressing gratitude for fans’ votes, Mitchell declared that his winners’ cheque will be donated to Ronald McDonald House.
"Having a sick child makes you appreciate all the good causes out there, and Ronald McDonald House helps kids and their families cope with illness, I'm so happy to be able to donate $5000," he said.
To read more about Sam Mitchell and all of the finalists in this year’s Philips Sports Dad of the Year award, visit sportsdads.com.au
