In what would be an utter delight for Hawks fans, newly appointed captain Jarryd Roughead has staked his claim for his emotional comeback to be only days away. Having been a consistent participant throughout this pre-season, it’s looking increasingly more likely that the star forward will mark the JLT Community Series clash against Geelong as his return to footy. The skipper was dominant in the Hawks final intra-club match last week, booting four goals to complement his 22 disposals, and has now left it in the hands of the coaching staff as to his selection this week.

To add to the possible feel-good comeback stories, exciting recruit Jaeger O'Meara has declared himself fit and believes he will be available for selection in the pre-season opening clash against Geelong. The former Gold Coast Sun was a notable performer in the intraclub hit-out last week, placing the explosive midfielder in good stead to put the brown and gold jumper on for the first time this Friday night. It would certainly be a momentous occasion for the youngster, having not played an AFL match in almost two and a half years.

Rookie Jack Fitzpatrick did his selection chances no harm after kicking three goals and finishing with 18 disposals in last week's clash. Fitzpatrick finished the 2016 season strongly, playing in each of the Hawks final three games of the season, including both finals.

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Both players and coaches have noted their excitement with the addition of Ty Vickery to the Hawks forward line this season and the former Tiger would be hopeful of a chance to run out against the Cats on Friday night. Kicking a goal in last week's intraclub, Vickery offers a different dimension to the Hawks attacking line-up which can only enhance its potency.

Teia Miles has been impressive across the pre-season. Following a successful 2016 in which he came third in Box Hill's best and fairest, Miles is likely to be pushing for selection in the JLT Community Series and beyond.

Dallas Willsmore and Harry Morrison are two more Hawks who have yet to debut for the club but have been noted by Elite Performance Manager Andrew Russell as stand-out pre-season performers. The duo of youngsters have impressed the fitness expert with their dedication and hard work over the summer and they will each be eying off the opportunity to further impress this Friday night.