Hall of Fame - Official AFL Website of the Hawthorn Football Club

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The Hawthorn Football Club Hall of Fame was introduced in 2003 to honour the achievements of the Club’s greatest players, officials or supporters. A Hall of Fame Legend is the highest honour that the Club can bestow on an individual for his or her outstanding contribution to the Club.To gain Legend status the individual must first be an inductee of the HFC Hall of Fame. Only HFC Life Members are eligible for induction.

Hawthorn Football Club Legends 2003

John Kennedy Snr

Born December 29, 1928
Recruited from Teachers College & Camberwell CYMS
Played 1950 – 1959
Guernsey 10
Games 164
Goals 29
Captain 1955 – 1959
Best & Fairest 1950, 1951, 1952 & 1954
3rd Best & Fairest 1957, 1958
State Captain 1957
State representative 4
Coach 1960 – 1963, 1967 – 1976
Premierships 1961, 1971, 1976
Night Premierships 1968, 1969
Chairman of Match Committee 1980 – 1982
HFC Life Member 1959
HFC Team of the Century – Coach 2001
HFC Hall of Fame – Legend of the Club 2003
AFL Hall of Fame 1996

John Kennedy Snr won the Club’s Best and Fairest Award four times in his first five years as a player such was the worth of both his play and leadership to the team. Kennedy’s philosophies and approach to training would see him develop into one of the game’s greatest coaches. The 1961 flag, the Club’s first, epitomized the Kennedy spirit. This was followed by premierships in 1971 and 1976. In later years, he became an elder spokesman for the game serving as Chairman of the AFL Commission.

Leigh Matthews

Born March 1, 1952
Recruited from Chelsea FC
Played 1969 – 1985
Guernsey 32 (1969 – 1971), 3 (1972 – 1985)
Games 332
Goals 915
Captain 1981 – 1985
Premierships 1971, 1976, 1978, 1983
Night Premierships 1969, 1977
Leading Goal kicker 1975
Best & Fairest 1971, 1972, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1980, 1982
2nd Best & Fairest 1975, 1981
3rd Best & Fairest 1973
State captain 1980
State Representative 14
Coleman Medal 1975
HFC Life Member 1976
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame - Legend of the Club 2003
AFL Legend 1996

Leigh Matthews has been judged as the game’s greatest player. He embodied the qualities that made the Hawks the envy of all. Matthews was squat, short-legged and barrel-chested and played the game in a courageous, physical and totally fearless manner. A reliable kick on goal he always made the ball his objective. A measure of his talent was winning eight Best and Fairest awards in an era when the Club was consistently in the finals and had some of the most talented players in the competition.

Hawthorn Football Club Legend 2005

Graham Arthur

Born September 6, 1936
Recruited from Sandhurst F C
Played 1955 – 1968
Guernsey 2 (1955 – 1964, 1966 – 1968) 28 (1965)
Games 232
Goals 201
Captain 1960 – 1968
Premiership 1961
Night Premiership 1968
Best & Fairest 1955, 1958, 1962
2nd Best & Fairest 1967
State Captain 1967
State Representative 12
Coach 1964 – 1965
Marketing Department/Social Club 1983 - 2006
HFC Life Member 1963
HFC Captain Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
HFC Legend of the Club 2005
AFL Hall of Fame 1996

A clever team player Graham Arthur was a brilliant half forward flanker winning the Best and Fairest in his first year. He led by example inspiring his team with his ability to bring others into the game with his handball. Unflappable in a crisis he used his strength to great effect - the bigger the occasion the better he played. Arthur achieved Hawthorn immortality being the captain of the Hawks' first flag in 1961

Hawthorn Football Club Legend 2008

Michael Tuck

Born June 24, 1953
Recruited from Berwick F C
Played 1972 – 1991
Guernsey 17
Games 426 (AFL record)
Goals 320
Captain 1986 – 1991
Premierships 1976, 1978, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships 1977, 1985, 1986, 1988
2nd Best & Fairest 1976, 1977, 1979, 1982, 1983, 1987, 1990
3rd Best & Fairest 1878, 1981
State Captain 1984
State Representative 11
HFC Life Member 1979
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
HFC Legend of the Club 2008
AFL Hall of Fame 1996

Michael Tuck holds the VFL/AFL record for the most senior games (426), most finals (39), most grand finals (11) and most premierships (7). Tuck was wiry in build, deceptively athletic and could run all day. He formed part of the feared ruck combination of Scott, Tuck and Matthews who fuelled much of the Club’s success. He was appointed captain in 1986 leading the team to four premierships. Tuck came second in the Best & Fairest seven times – such was his consistency.

Hawthorn Football Club Legend 2010

Peter Hudson

Born February 19, 1946
Recruited from New Norfolk, Tasmania
1967-1974, 1977
Games, 129
Goals, 727
Guernsey Numbers, 26 (1967-74), 1 (1977)
Premiership, 1971
Night Premierships, 1968, 1969, 1977
Best & Fairest, 1968, 1970
3rd Best & Fairest, 1969
Most Brownlow Votes, 1969, 1970, 1971
Leading Goal Kicker, 1967 (57), 1968 (125), 1969 (120), 1970 (146), 1971(150), 1977 (150)
HFC Life Member, 1978
State Games, 8
Chief Executive, 1995-96
HFC Team of the Century, 2001 (Full Forward)
HFC Hall of Fame, 2003 (Inductee)
AFL Legend of the Game, 1999
Order of Australia, Services to Football, 1979

Many consider Hudson the best full forward of all time. An average of 5.59 goals per games exceeds all others. He kicked 100 goals in four consecutive seasons before injury robbed him of absolute greatness. After struggling to get fit for five years, he returned for one season in 1977 to kick yet another ton. Often criticized for his apparent lack of high marking skills (although he took many) and not liking the ‘rough stuff’, he had a great ability to read the game, using his body to perfection to nudge out an opponent out of the way at the crucial moment before grabbing the ball and goaling. Hudson was idolized by the Hawks supporters for his incredible deeds with the many of the supporters changing ends each quarter of the game to watch the master at work. He returned to Club Administration in 1995 for two years followed taking a leading role with Hawthorn’s move to play home games in Launceston.

2003 Inductees

Dr Sandy Ferguson

President 1953 – 1967
Premiership 1961
Vice President 1952
Club Medical Officer 1950 – 1979
HFC Life Member 1957
HFC Hall of Fame 2003

Son of Ferguson, Captain of Hawthorn when the club played in the MJFA in 1906, Dr Sandy Ferguson was recruited by Dr Jona for the position of Club Medico in 1950. He was to serve in that position for 29 years. Undertaking the role of Club President in 1953, Dr Ferguson set his aims to create a Club that was respected by all and to win a premiership.1961 saw the fulfillment of that dream and the Ferguson spirit and legacy continues on today with his now famous slogan “If you embrace Hawthorn, Hawthorn will embrace you”. He remains a respected voice behind the scenes.

Dr Jacob Jona

Born 1898, died January 1961
President 1932 – 1949
Vice President 1926 – 1931
Medical Officer 1919 – 1949
HFC Life Member 1935
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
VFL Delegate and Vice President
VFL Life Member 1945

Dr Jona was the longest serving president in the Club’s history. During the lean times of the Depression years in the 1930s, he guaranteed player payments from his own pocket and also kept the Club alive with similar generosity. He would treat all the injured players at his home after the game on a Saturday night at no expense. In a visionary move to promote football and to encourage local recruits, he introduced the under 15’s school boy competition to play curtain raiser matches at Glenferrie in 1935. This was the forerunner to the Hawthorn Rovers, which started the following year. Many future Hawks would graduate from these teams, such was his vision.

Allan Jeans

Born September 21, 1933
Coach 1981 – 1987, 1989 – 1990
Games 221
Premierships 1983, 1986, 1989
Night Premierships 1985, 1986
HFC Life Member 1990
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
AFL Hall of Fame 1996

Allan Jeans was one of the greatest coaches in the history of the game. He has left a positive lasting legacy with all that have played under his direction. His homespun sayings are legendary. Perhaps the most famous was his comment on coaching teams, “They’re like sausages – you can boil them, grill them or curry them, but ultimately they’re still sausages." When Jeans arrived at the Club, discontent was rife. Because of his honesty and willingness to get on with the job, he soon won the confidence of the players and in two years the Hawks were back at the helm. With Jeans' leadership, the Club enjoyed a decade of unbelievable success. He guided the Hawks into the finals in 1982 followed by the record-breaking win against Essendon to win the 1983 flag. The great rivalry intensified between the two clubs with the Hawks being runner-up to Essendon in the 1984 and 85 seasons. Jeans' second flag came after a strong win against Carlton in 1986 only to suffer defeat at the hands of the Blues in the 1987 granmd final. Jeans missed the 1988 season through illness and in his absence Alan Joyce coached the side that easily accounted for Melbourne in the grand final. Jeans returned in 1989 to lead the team to back-to-back premierships. Many consider this the greatest grand final in living memory as both teams crippled by injury saw the Hawks hang to win by six points. The players credit Jeans' inspirational speech at halftime as the motivation for this success. In recent years on a Thursday night in the social club, Graham Arthur ran the famed Yabbie Cup, named after Jeans. Many of Allan Jeans' former players tried their skills in a game of sporting trivia often fought out with that dogged determination that Jeans demanded on the field. Players delighted the audience with their efforts in mimicking many of Jeans' speeches such was their affection for him.

Peter Knights

Born February 30, 1952
Recruited from Longwarry F C
Played 1969 – 1985
Guernsey 24
Games 264
Goals 201
Vice Captain 1981 – 1985
Premierships 1976, 1978, 1983
Night Premiership 1969
Best & Fairest 1975, 1978
2nd Best & Fairest 1974
3rd Best & Fairest 1970, 1976, 1983
Leading Goal Kicker 1972
State representative 9
Simpson Medal 1971
Coach 1994 – 1995
HFC Life Member 1976
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
AFL Hall of Fame 1996

Peter Knights is one of the all time greats. He had everything: an electrifying leap, brilliant marking, courage and flair. Injury robbed him of a premiership in 1971 and the Brownlow Medal in 1976. Predominantly a star centre halfback, Knights could also give life to the forward line when sent there, heading the Club goal kicking in 1972. Appointed coach in 1994 for two years: in reflection a very difficult task with the Club headed for its most turbulent times – the merge issues of 1996.

Albert Mills

Born, February 16, 1910
Died May 6, 1984
Recruited from Wangaratta F C
Played 1930 – 1942
Guernsey 12
Games 196
Goals 60
Captain 1932, 1934, 1938, 1940, 1941
Best and Fairest 1933, 1935, 1939
2nd Best & Fairest 1937
State Representative 11
Coach 1940 – 1941
HFC Life Member 1939
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2003

Bert Mills was considered by all who saw him play to be one of the best from his era in the VFL. He was a popular and brilliant team player who led Hawthorn during the lean 1930s with his sterling efforts in the ruck. Mills possessed an outstanding spring for the tap out and was an excellent mark and kick. He received numerous offers to transfer to more prominent clubs because of his leadership and playing ability, but could never be persuaded to leave his beloved Mayblooms, he was renowned for his loyalty to Hawthorn. He later served the VFL as a member of the Umpires Board.

David Parkin

Born September 12, 1942
Recruited from Melbourne High School
Played 1961 – 1974
Guernsey 27
Games 211
Goals 21
Captain 1969 - 1973
Premiership 1971
Night Premiership 1968, 1969
Best and Fairest 1965
2nd Best & Fairest 1971
State representative 5
Coach 1977 – 1980
Premiership 1978
Night Premierships 1977
Director of Football 2001 – 2002
HFC Life Member 1970
HFC Hall of Fame Inductee 2003
AFL Hall of Fame 2002

David Parkin was one of the Club's most outstanding team leaders. His great football skill was matched by even greater physical and mental courage. Leading by example, the physique of his opponents did not deter him from meeting them head on when required. His coaching has been determined adherence to his methods combined with his genuine concern for the all-round welfare of his players. Despite his great success at Carlton and Fitzroy he always said Hawthorn was his home.

Phil Ryan

Born June 9, 1915
Recruited from Xavier College and Kew CYMS
Played 1941-1947
Guernsey numbers, (1941) 38, (1942-44) 14, (1945) 13, (1946-47) ?
Games 52
Goals 26
Best Team Player, 1942
President 1968-1979
Premierships 1971, 1976, 1978
Vice President/Committee, 1948-52
Club Selector including Role of Chairman, 1948-52
Club Treasurer, 1953-67
HFC Life Member 1951
HFC Hall of Fame 2003

Phil Ryan gave 38 continuous years service to the Club, firstly as a 2nd 18 player from 1941, until he retired as Club President in 1979. As a player he was a handy forward come ruck man but he would be best remembered for his role as a Club official. The Annual Report of 1979 reports ‘that Ryan has set a standard as President in his period of office that is without parallel in the history of our great Club; 3 Premierships, 1971, 76, 78 and a consolidation of our financial resources’. He remains a respected voice behind the scenes.

Don Scott

Born December 20, 1947
Recruited from Box Hill F C
Guernsey 23
Games 302
Goals 133
Captain 1976 – 1980
Premierships 1971, 1976, 1978
Night Premierships 1969, 1977
Best & Fairest 1973
2nd Best & Fairest 1980
3rd Best & Fairest 1977
State Captain 1978
State Representative 4
HFC Director 1996 – 2004
HFC Life Member 1974
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2003
AFL Hall of Fame 2001

Don Scott was recognised as one of the most fearless ruckman of his era giving the Hawks tremendous service. He played with enormous courage, doing what was necessary to win with a remorseless, tough mode of attrition, an intimidating competitor. Considered somewhat an individual, he displayed an added dimension when he rallied the troops to save the Hawks from a fatal merger with Melbourne FC in 1996.

2005 Inductees

Ron Cook

Born January 23, 1930
Died December 4, 2004
Hawthorn Rovers 1945 – 1946
Committee 1953 – 1987
Chairman of Recruiting
Secretary 1961 – 1967
President 1980 – 1987
Premierships 1983, 1986
HFC Life Member 1960
HFC Hall of Fame 2005

Ron Cook was a pivotal figure in the history of the Club. He was a part of the team of administrators and coaches that saw the Club become a respected power in the VFL, leading to outstanding premiership success. In Cook's time the Club won the ’61, ’71, ’76, ’78 and ’83 flags. Cook served the Club energetically for 34 consecutive years. He remained a respected force behind the scene and stood firm in the belief that Hawthorn should retain its own identity when threatened by the proposed merger with Melbourne FC.

Jason Dunstall

Born August 14, 1964
Recruited from Coorparoo, Queensland
Played 1985 – 1998
Guernsey 19
Games 269
Goals 1254
Captain 1995 – 1998
Premierships 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships 1985, 1986, 1988, 1991, 1992
Club Champion 1988, 1989, 1992, and 1993
2nd Club Champion 1994
3rd Club Champion 1996
Leading Goal Kicker 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994,1995,1996,1998
Coleman Medal 1988, 1989, 1992, 1993
State Representative 8
HFC Board 2004 -
HFC Life Member 1991
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2005
AFL Hall of Fame 2002

Jason Dunstall developed into a brilliant, unselfish full forward, coming of age in the 1986 grand final with six goals. He was an incredibly strong mark and fast lead. His precision maneuvering of his muscular frame was a stumbling block for the opposition fullbacks. If it wasn’t for a number of serious injuries, a fractured skull in 1990, and two knee injuries late in his career he may have come the greatest goal kicker in the game. Upon his retirement he was the third highest goal kicker in the AFL’s history. He was named in Hawthorn’s Team of the Century in 2002. Dunstall still continues to help the Club in many ways, at training as a skills coach and was recently invited onto the HFC Board.

Kelvin Moore

Born August 15, 1950
Recruited from Frankston Peninsula
Played 1970 – 1984
Guernsey 15
Games 300
Goals 21
Premierships 1971, 1976, 1978
Night Premierships 1977
Best and Fairest 1979
State Representative 13
HFC Board, 1996-2000
Chair/Match Committee, 1997-99
Assistant Coach, 2000-02
HFC Life Member 1977
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2005
AFL Hall of Fame 2005

Kelvin Moore was considered one of the best fullbacks in the history of the game. Always cool under pressure, with razor sharp reflexes and great anticipation. Known for his great Club loyalty, Moore took many a relieving mark to turn the tide then a side step-then-drop-punt to position, that became a familiar and much loved sight for Hawk supporters. He returned to serve the Club on the Board, 1996-99 and on the coaching staff 2000-02.

John Platten

Born March 17, 1963
Recruited from Central Districts, South Australia
Played 1986 – 1997
Guernsey 44
Games 258
Goals 228
Premierships 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships 1986, 1988, 1991, 1992
Club Champion 1987, 1994
2nd Club Champion 1988, 1991
3rd Club Champion 1986
Brownlow Medal 1987 (tied with Tony Lockett, St Kilda)
HFC Life Member 1991
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2005
AFL Hall of Fame 2003

John Platten is one of the most unlikely players ever to play VFL/AFL Football. A mere slip of a man, skinny, a great mop of hair but blessed with enormous courage and a real talent for playing football at the highest level, as his Brownlow Medal, All-Australian and premiership honours attest. He had lightening speed and terrific endurance which most taggers had trouble matching. He was also a good mark overhead. He forever would burrow under packs scrounging for the football and loved to kick a goal. Platten was a wonderful on-baller and a major player in the success of the 1986 to 1995 era. A greatly admired teammate and much loved by his adoring fans.

Ted Pool

Born November 9. 1906
Died February 11, 1975
Recruited from Kalgoolie
Played 1926 – 1938
Guernsey 19
Games 200
Goals 230
Most Consistent Player 1933
State Representative 7
HFC Life Member 1936
HFC Hall of Fame 2005

Ted Pool was the first player to play 200 games for the Club. He was an outstanding sportsman, excelling at cricket, tennis and swimming. Considered one of the greatest rovers to play the game; he displayed courageous daring, dash and skill, winning high praise from his opponents. He had uncanny ability to read the opposition ruckman’s taps enabling him to gain first possession of the ball and then drive the ball forward with well-directed stab kicks. Captain Bert Mills considered Pool to be the best player that he’d seen at the Club. A marvelous player who kept going year after year.

2007 Inductees

Gary Ayres

Born September 28, 1960
Recruited from Warragul
Played 1978 – 1993
Guernsey 7
Games 269
Goals 70
Captain 1992 – 1993
Vice Captain 1987 - 1991
Premierships 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships 1985, 1986, 1988, 1991, 1992
Club Champion 1986
2nd Club Champion 1989
Norm Smith Medal 1986, 1988
State Captain 1989
State Representative 6
HFC Life Member 1987
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2007
AFL Hall of Fame 1999

Gary Ayres was one of the toughest, most relentless Hawks making a name for himself as a solid core defender in the great sides of the 1980s. Cool in a crisis, coach Allan Jeans paid him the ultimate tribute; “A great driver in heavy traffic” - a tribute to his ability to handle pressure when need be. Ayres was often moved to the centre in difficult games with telling effect. He created history to be the first player to win two Norm Smith medals, named best on ground in the 1986 & 1988 premierships.

Chris Langford

Born February 2, 1963
Recruited from Melbourne Grammar
Played 1983 – 1997
Guernsey 28 (1983 – 1986), 24 (1987 – 1997)
Games 303
Goals 33
Captain 1994
Premierships 1986,1988,1989,1991
Night Premierships 1986, 1988, 1991, 1992
3rd Club Champion 1987, 1989, 1991, 1993
State Representative 8
HFC Life Member 1989
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2007

Chris Langford was a champion fullback whose strength and consistency was greatly admired. He thrived on the challenge of being able to arrive to the contest and clear the ball no matter how desperate the situation, more than holding his own against opposition. Considered an attacking player, he would often run through the pack, bouncing the ball before delivering it safely to a teammate. Langford struck a chord and became immortalized with the Hawk supporters when he raised his guernsey high in defiance of the proposed merge after the last game in 1996 against Melbourne. Langford will always be remembered for his commitment and passion for his beloved brown and gold guernsey. Appointed to the AFL Commission.

Stan Spinks

Born, October 16, 1912
Died
Recruited from Auburn FC
Played 1932 – 1941
Guernsey 29 (1932), 8 (1933 – 1941)
Games 142
Goals 19
Vice Captain 1940
Best and Fairest 1932, 1938
2nd Best & Fairest 1933, 1935, 1940
2nd Brownlow Medal 1938 (to Dick Reynolds, Essendon)
State Representative 4
Coach 3rd 18 1946
HFC Selection Committee
HFC General Committee
HFC Life Member 1941
HFC Hall of Fame 2007

Stan Spinks earned the reputation as one of the finest centre men in the VFL during his era. Strongly built, he played with ferocious determination and dash. He often beat taller opponents in the air and was considered one of the great wet-weather footballers displaying outstanding skills with his delivery with the wet and greasy ball. Triple Brownlow Medallist Hayden Bunton considered Spinks to be one of the hardest opponents that he ever played against. After playing a magnificent game against Bunton at Fitzroy, the HFC supporters took up a collection and presented Spinks with 11 pounds, a rare acknowledgement. He was dropped to the reserves for disciplinary reasons, where he played outstanding football but was continually overlooked without getting another chance with the seniors. He left disillusioned to play with Camberwell in the VFA. A decision he regretted but such was his love for the Club that he soon returned and continued to serve the Club assisting in coaching, selection and serving on the General Committee for another 20 years.

2008 Inductees

Robert DiPierdomenico

Born May 5, 1958
Recruited from North Kew FC
Played 1975 – 1991
Games 240
Goals 130
Guernsey Numbers 38 (1973) 9 (1978 – 1991)
Premierships 1978, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989
Night Premierships 1985, 1986, 1988, 1991
3rd Best & Fairest 1984
Brownlow Medal 1986 (Tied with Greg Williams, Sydney Swans)
State Representative 6
HFC Life Member 1984
HFC Team of the Century 2001
AFL Hall of Fame Inductee 2007

"I was born to play finals" is Dipper’s now famous quote after being considered best on ground in the 1978 premiership. He played in another four premierships for his beloved Hawks. Dipper, in a sense, represented the essence of Hawthorn. He was a battler who made good, and as such echoed the story of the Club itself. He was known for his irrepressible spirit, his toughness, his will to win and attack on the ball. One of only four players at the Club to win the Brownlow Medal, his undoubted courage displayed in the 1989 premiership will live forever in the hearts of his devoted Hawk supporters.

Chris Mew

Born May 7, 1961
Recruited from Rosebud F C
Played 1980 – 1993
Games 230
Goals 21
Guernsey Numbers 46 (1980 – 1983), 2 (1984 – 1993)
Premierships 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Day Premiership 1985, 1988, 1991
2nd Club Champion 1985
Most Consistent Player 1982, 1983, 1984, 1987
State Representative 4
HFC Life Member 1986
HFC Team of the Century 2001

HFC folklore has it thay coach Allan Jeans pencilled Chris Mew’s name in first each Thursday night and the team was built around him. Such was his worth to the team. Mew was the backbone of the all-conquering sides of the 1980s. He played with apparent disregard for the limelight, leaving all that to his more outgoing teammates. A very long kick and strong mark, he had the skill to counter the best opposition forwards in the competition. Mew retired briefly but was persuaded to return playing a major role in the 1991 premiership, his fifth.

Ken Goddard

Born March 10, 1927
Assistant Trainer 1962 – 1969, 1999 – 2007
Head Trainer 1970 – 1998
HFC Life Member 1976
Jack Titus Award – Services to Football 1999
Australian Sports Medal – Services to Football 2000

Ken Goddard has assisted in 17 premierships with the Hawks: eight day premierships and nine night premierships - an AFL record. Goddard joined Hawthorn as a trainee trainer in 1962 and was appointed head trainer in 1970. He succeeded Beau Wallace who had been head trainer from 1926 – 1965. Goddard assisted in eight day premierships during his illustrious career with the Hawks, gaining added fame with his legendary trainers room. A close confidant of the players, he stood down as head trainer in 1998 but still assists his beloved Hawks most training sessions and match day, strapping the ankles of the young players.

2009 Inductees

Dermott Brereton

Played 1982-1993
Born August 19, 1964
Recruited Frankston Rovers
Guernsey 47 (1982), 23 (1983-1992)
Games 189
Goals 427
Vice Captain 1992
Premierships 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships 1985, 1986, 1989, 1991, 1992
Club Champion 1985
Leading Goalkicker 1985
State Representative 9
HFC Life Member 1989
HFC Board 1998-2005
HFC Life Member 1989
HFC Team of the Century 2001
AFL Hall of Fame 1999

Brereton was one of the most exciting players of his era. His flamboyance endeared him to all Hawk fans whilst infuriating his rivals. He kicked five goals in his first game, the first semi-final against North Melbourne in 1982. He revelled in the heat of battle and would do anything to create a distraction to the opposition. He was capable of turning many a game with his immense talent, taking contested marks, telling kicks for goal combined with an ability to intimidate his opponents. Such was his love for the Hawks; he returned as a board member and assisted with training under coach Peter Schwab.

Peter Crimmins

Played 1966-1975
Born August 8, 1948
Died September 28, 1976
Recruited Assumption College
Guernsey 5
Games 176
Goals 231
Captain 1974-1975
Vice Captain 1970 - 1973
Premiership 1971
Night Premierships 1968, 1969
2nd Best & Fairest 1968, 1972
3rd Best & Fairest 1971
State Representative 1
HFC Life Member 1973

The senior partner of one of the great roving combinations in the games history: Crimmins and Matthews. When Crimmins was at his peak in the early ‘70s he was one of the finest players in the VFL, brilliant and courageous. A real favourite with Hawks supporters with his great speed, blonde hair flying, a willingness to take anyone on and a great shot on goal. Destined for even greater fame but unfortunately his illness and subsequent passing from cancer curtailed his career. He became the inspiration for the 1976 premiership, known within the Club as ‘The cup for Crimmo’. Such is the importance of the legend of Crimmo, that the Club Champion was renamed the ‘Peter Crimmins Medal’ in 2004 in his honour.

John Peck

Played 1954-1966
Born August 7, 1937
Died February 2, 1993
Recruited Canterbury Colts
Guernsey 23
Games 213
Goals 475
Captain 1965, Rounds 1 & 2
Vice Captain 1960 - 1966
Premiership 1961
2nd Best & Fairest 1956, 1960, 1965
3rd Best & Fairest 1963, 1964
Leading Goal kicker 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966
Coleman Medallist 1963, 1964, 1965
State Representative 7
HFC Life Member 1962

Peck was big and strong and holds the distinction of being the youngest Hawk to make his debut when he played his first game at the age of 16. Hard and tough at the ball, he was a very good mark a powerful kick and moved very fast for his size. Initially he made his name as a very mobile ruckman and when required proved himself to be very capable at either centre half forward or centre halfback. However when he was moved to full forward he was an instant success, his strength and cunning brought about many goals. A very popular cult figure affectionately known as Speed or Elvis, he gained immortality with the Hawk supporters when he kicked the winning goal enabling the Hawks to beat Collingwood for the first time at Victoria Park in 1960.

Brian Coleman

Played 1956
Born May 28, 1935
Recruited Camberwell
Guernsey 35
Games 6
Goals 5
Premiership Reserves 1959
Coach under 19’s 1969-1977
Premiers 1972
Reserve 18 Team Manager 1978-1979
Match Committee 1980-1995
Chairman of Selectors 1983-1995
Premierships 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1991
Night Premierships1985, 1986, 1988, 1991, 1992
Reserves Premiership 1985
Board Member 1982-1996
Vice President 1987-1995
President 1996
Box Hill Chairman of Selectors 2000-2003
Premiership 2001
HFC Life Member 1975
Jack Titus Award Services to Football 2004

Coleman was a great stalwart of the club giving valuable service for over 45 years being involved in 14 premierships. As a player he gained distinction playing as a rover in the reserve 18 secondpPremiership in 1959. After a number of successful seasons coaching East Malvern, Canterbury and Springvale Coleman was invited back to the Hawks to coach in 1969. He coached the under 19’s for nine years, winning the only premiership for the Club at this level in 1972. With this valuable grounding, Coleman went onto be the most influential and successful chairman of selectors in the Club’s history. He achieved the remarkable legacy of five day and five night premierships in the Hawks golden era from 1982 to 1994 - 13 consecutive finals appearances, an AFL record. He continued this role in later years at Box Hill being part of their premiership in 2001.

2010 Inductees

Gary Buckenara

Born July 3, 1958
Recruited from Subiaco, WA
1982-1990
Games 154
Goals 292
Guernsey Number, 11 (1982-1990)
Premierships, 1983, 1986, 1988, 1989
Night Premierships, 1986, 1989,
Reserves Premiership, 1985
2nd Best & Fairest, 1986
Equal 3rd Best & Fairest 1989
HFC Life Member, 1989
Assistant Coach 2000-2002
Opposition Analyst 2003
Recruiting Manager, 2004
HFC Team of the Century 2001
HFC Hall of Fame 2010

A natural sportsman, Buckenara was very talented at both football and cricket. He was very damaging player either on the ball or on a half forward flank displaying excellent all-round skills. Buckenara was a superb mark, thrilling the crowd the manner in which he would throw himself at the ball with spectacular leaps high above the pack or low to the ground not unlike a slips catch. He was a prodigious kick for goal often of one step and he is fondly remembered by his fans for kicking the winning goal after the siren against Melbourne in the 1987 Preliminary Final. Coach Allan Jeans paid him the ultimate tribute, considering him Hawthorn’s best big game player in his time as coach of the Hawks. He returned to the Club firstly on the coaching staff in 2000, followed by becoming in-charge of recruiting in 2004 playing a leading role in assisting the lineup of players for the successful premiership in 2008.

Bert Hyde

Born June 3, 1907, Died October 23, 1989
Recruited from Monbulk
1925-1935
Games, 129
Goals, 269
Guernsey Numbers, 32 (1925-26), 20 (1927-35)
Leading Goal Kicker, 1926 (27), 1927 (41), 1928 (62), 1929 (52), 1930 (52)
Supporters Trophy, 1930
HFC Life Member, 1935
State Games, 6
Match Committee, 1938-43
President Past Players, 1968-69
Life Member Past Players & Officials Association
HFC Hall of Fame 2010

Hyde gave over 50 years service to the HFC. He lead the goal kicking for five consecutive years with a then record of 62 goals in 1928 until Jack Green kicked 80 goals in 1934. As a forward, he was renowned for his fast leads, high marking and soaring torpedo punts that delighted the crowd. He was moved to fullback in 1931 and starred in that position. The only player picked to represent Victoria both at full forward in 1928 and full back in 1933, a testament to his versatility and value to a team as a player.

Hyde served on many Committees, the Club, the Match and Finance and was a Club Talent Spotter from the late 1930s through to the 1970s. He took a leading role in forming the Past Players Association and was made a Life Member of the PP&O for his continued activity in raising funds for the health and welfare of retired players. He also was held in very high regard by the general football community Hyde with his active role in the media, first as a newspaper columnist followed by radio and the early days of television calling both football and as a popular member of a number of football panel shows. In these roles he was the voice for Hawthorn, always pushing the Club’s cause.

J W Kennon

Born August 11, 1985, Died March 15, 1945
Played MJFA, ESFA & Wednesday Trades Team 1902-1912
No complete list exists that gives an accurate count of games played, goals kick other than Kennon’s name appears often playing in the above listed teams
Assistant Secretary, 1912
Club Committee, 1912-1931
President, 1921-1931
HFC Life Member 1924
HFC Hall of Fame 2010

Kennon is a one of the most important personalities in the history of the HFC. He played in the first year of the Club in 1902, then as an official, he took a leading role with the vision that a team representing the suburb of Hawthorn should be in the top football competition. He led a steering committee in conjunction with the local Council that saw Hawthorn graduate through the junior ranks of football, the Metropolitan Junior Football Association then join the Victorian Football Association in 1914 and finally reaching the pinnacle in 1925 when Hawthorn was accepted into The Victorian Football League.
Kennon only retired from serving the Club when he sustained a head injury when playing golf in 1931. For his services to the HFC, the original Grandstand at Glenferrie was named jointly in his honour with G W Owen. This grandstand was demolished in 1937 to make way for the Red Brick Stand later to be named The Michael Tuck Stand. In more ways than one Kennon could be considered one of the spiritual leaders of today’s highly successful Club.

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