IT’S a new year and we’re pretty excited about the challenges that lie ahead for the team in 2016.

There’s sure to be plenty of talented young Hawks vying for senior berths over the next couple of months of pre-season training and NAB Challenge matches.

We’ve taken a look at 10 second-to-sixth year players who will be hoping they can push their names into the frame for regular senior selection this year.

Name: Angus Litherland
Age: 23
Guernsey: 17
Height: 192 cm
Weight: 88 kg
Games (2015): 6   
Games (career): 19
Drafted: Pick no. 55, 2010 NAB AFL Draft

Defender Angus Litherland again got a taste of senior football in 2015, but will be hoping 2016 is the year he can become a permanent fixture in the back six.

According to the 2015 AFL Season Guide…

After a three-year wait, the West Australian made his debut for Hawthorn in round two (2014) and, in 13 matches, impressed the Hawks with his desperate defensive work and hard running off half-back.

He has a booming kick, a big tank and the ability to play on small and tall forwards.

In 2015…

Litherland could only break through for six games in season 2015 with the Hawks’ backline settled and relatively free of injury.

He was a consistent performer for Box Hill Hawks and didn’t miss a beat when he was called upon for senior duty.

Litherland impressed against Sydney Swans in Round 16 – and also kicked his first AFL goal in the same match.

Where would he slot in?

A key defensive post has opened up with Brian Lake's retirement, and Litherland’s versatility to match up on almost any size opponent places him in shape to nail down a place in the Hawks’ back six.

Pre-season update…

Litherland says he’s put in a lot of hard work as he attempts to “break into the side and make a statement” in 2016.

It’s a tough defensive unit to break into, but Litherland is hopeful this will be the year he takes the next step.