We spoke to Hawthorn’s Elite Performance Manager Andrew Russell to find out which of our Hawks
have stepped up their game across the course of the pre-season.

Name: Isaac Smith
Age: 28
Guernsey: 16
Senior games (2016): 24
Senior games (career): 135

Winning the Best Clubman award at the 2016 Peter Crimmins Medal, Isaac Smith is coming off a strong 2016 season which saw him play every game and average 22.5 disposals.

The perennial time-trial king has impressed with his running ability since his first day at the club, dominating in the event over the last six years.

However, Andrew Russell notes other areas of the wingman’s game when suggesting that he has been one of the pre-season stars.

“Isaac has just been a stand-out in terms of his intent and energy around the group.

“Also in terms of his training quality, he hasn’t missed a beat since we have been back,” Russell said.

His leadership has also reached new heights; a member of Hawthorn's 2016 leadership group, Smith was elevated to vice-captain after an announcement on Friday morning. He will assist newly-appointed captain Jarryd Roughead, and share the vice-captaincy duties with teammate Liam Shiels.