Hawthorn returns to the grind — and one young Hawk is turning heads already. But here's where things get exciting: under gloomy skies and relentless winds, a new wave of energy is surging through the Hawks' ranks, and it could just set the tone for their 2026 campaign.
At Hawthorn's cutting-edge training facility, head coach Sam Mitchell finally saw his entire squad together for the first time this pre-season. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, players looked sharp and determined — a reflection of a group intent on redemption after narrowly missing last year’s Grand Final, falling to the Cats in the preliminary final at the MCG.
Players who had long adapted to Waverley Park’s unpredictable climate looked right at home. It was clear from the first drill that Mitchell’s side is desperate to go one better in 2026. The fresh season felt like a reset — a clean slate for the Hawks to prove they belong among the AFL elite.
A full squad and standout performers
While last week’s training featured mainly the first-to-fourth-year players, this Monday marked the full reunion. From veterans to rookies, every Hawk stepped out to make an impression. Some did more than that — they made statements.
Key leaders like James Sicily, Ned Reeves, Calsher Dear, and midfield dynamo Jai Newcombe were kept on light workloads, but that just opened the door for others. Vice-captain Dylan Moore and young gun Josh Ward seized the moment, both showcasing strong early form that suggested they could be crucial in covering the midfield gaps left during the off-season. Meanwhile, seasoned half-back Karl Amon continued to impress, looking as fit and focused as ever.
The endurance test begins
The group commenced training with a structured running session — a true test of grit after the summer layoff. Split into smaller groups, players took on a demanding time trial designed to push their aerobic limits and gauge who had maintained their conditioning through the break.
Among the standouts was Josh Ward, again turning heads as he dominated his group’s time trial. With Josh Weddle observing from the sidelines, Ward’s efforts made it clear he intends to lock down a starting midfield berth — particularly after the team’s unsuccessful attempt to lure Zach Merrett during the 2025 trade window. Following close behind were Amon and Moore, while new recruit Jack Dalton and returning midfielder Finn Maginness — bouncing back from a serious kidney injury — rounded out the top performers.
The second running group had its own star in Harry Morrison, who missed last season’s finals despite an impressive regular season. His strong showing was a message: he’s ready to reclaim his place in the best 23. Morrison edged out midfield enforcer Conor Nash, with Max Ramsden, Cam Mackenzie, and Lloyd Meek filling out the top five — all showing hunger to impress.
Forward firepower and competition heats up
After the endurance grind came skill sessions — a sharper indicator of where the team’s technical edge stands. During the forwards-vs-defenders drill, Mitchell Lewis stood out, dominating with a blend of strength, smarts, and speed that kept defender James Blanck on his toes.
Meanwhile, Mabior Chol and emerging defender Noah Mraz locked horns in a physical, seesawing battle. Chol often had the upper hand, but Mraz’s relentless attitude showed maturity beyond his years — a trait that will serve him well if he’s to earn a regular senior spot.
And then there’s the ageless wonder — Jack Gunston. The reigning Peter Crimmins Medallist, now 34, continues to defy time, gliding through drills with precision and poise. Having spent part of the offseason training in Texas with fellow teammates, Gunston appears more determined than ever to maintain his reborn form and fight for a permanent spot in a crowded forward unit. That forward line will feature Lewis, Dear, Chol, and sparkplug Nick Watson — a mix of youth, power, and unpredictability.
New faces, second chances
One of the most intriguing storylines belongs to Brodie McLaughlin, a potential SSP signing fighting for one of two remaining list spots. The former Gold Coast Suns forward impressed with his energy and movement, looking every bit an AFL-level player. After revitalizing his career at Williamstown with a standout year marked by strong forward play and accuracy, McLaughlin’s resurgence could be one of the best comeback tales of the pre-season. Could Hawthorn provide him the fresh start he’s been chasing?
Fixing the midfield puzzle
The session wrapped up with midfield and stoppage drills — an area that has been under scrutiny since the Hawks’ finals exit, where Geelong outperformed them at the contest. Players like Connor Macdonald, Henry Hustwaite, Ward, and Mackenzie trained alongside newly-drafted rookie Ollie Greeves, all striving to fill the gap left by James Worpel, who departed for Geelong as a free agent.
This focus on clearances and contested ball work signals that Mitchell and his coaching group have identified a clear priority: build a midfield capable of standing toe-to-toe with the competition’s best. The question now is — can the evolving blend of young talent and returning veterans strike the right balance?
Some fans might argue the Hawks are still one seasoned midfielder short. Others believe giving their emerging stars the stage is exactly what this rebuild needs. What do you think — should Hawthorn chase more experience, or trust their youth movement to deliver in 2026? Let the debate begin.
