The Hawks are not taking part in finals for the first time since 2009, and while it may be a bitter pill to swallow, Hawthorn Coach Alastair Clarkson believes the break will have its advantages for the playing group.

“It’s really difficult to stay at the top each year, particularly when you’re winning it and you’re the hunted,” Clarkson said during Footy Classified on Monday night.

“Our boys have played nearly a season of extra footy over the course of the last seven or eight years in the additional finals that they’ve played, and I think eventually it catches up with you.

“But we’re looking at the positives [of not being in finals]. We get an extended break, so hopefully we can recharge the batteries and get going again next year.” 

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Despite his own side no longer taking part in the September race, the four-time premiership coach still has a keen interest in this final series. Richmond Senior Coach Damien Hardwick, who has guided his Tigers to their first preliminary final berth since 2001, was an assistant coach under Clarkson between 2005-2009, and the pair still maintain a strong friendship.

“Dimma and I speak probably two-three times a week, our wives are great friends and our daughters and sons are too.” 

So, with no brown and gold taking part, who is Clarkson supporting this September?

“I like the Tigs,” he admitted, after some probing.

“Partly for sentimental reasons because of my association with Dimma, but I just like the way they’re going about it, a little bit like the Dogs last year.”