5 to keep in mind: Blake Hardwick

The Hawks have plenty of talented young players who will be looking to become regular fixtures in the Hawthorn side this year.

So, who might we expect to shine?

We’ve put the spotlight on five players with under six years in the AFL system who will be hoping for a breakout year with the Hawks in 2017.

Name: Blake Hardwick
Age: 19
Guernsey: 20
Senior games (2016): 1
Senior games (career): 1
Drafted: Pick no. 44, 2015 NAB AFL Draft.

2016 was Blake Hardwick’s first year on an AFL list, and there was plenty to like about how the young forward went about his football.

In 2016…

Hardwick put together a promising season, with several successful outings in the VFL. He was listed among the Box Hill Hawks’ best players on a number of occasions, and kicked two or more goals in at least six matches.

Hardwick found that elusive spot in the Hawthorn line-up in Round 19 against Carlton, after Cyril Rioli was a late withdrawal.

He collected eight disposals and laid three tackles, but a fit Rioli the following week meant that Hardwick found himself back at VFL level, where he stayed for the remainder of the season.

Where could he slot in?

If you’re a forward for the Hawks, you’re amongst good company. While Rioli, Paul Puopolo and Luke Breust are fit and healthy, it will be a hard task for young small forwards to break into the side but Hardwick isn’t baulking at the challenge.

The big-name Hawks will need to keep playing quality football to hold onto their starting positions, if Hardwick has anything to do with it.

In the meantime, the young forward will likely continue to plead his case for AFL selection by showing his immense potential at VFL level.