Hawthorn draftee James Worpel says the Hawks are set for an exciting season in 2018 as they gear up for their final hit-out before Round 1.
Speaking to 94.7 The Pulse on Tuesday, Worpel said the side was in great shape heading in the season proper, with the likes of Ben Stratton, Cyril Rioli and James Frawley set to return after missing big chunks of last year.
“Internally I think we’re in a really good spot at the moment, we’ve got a good core young group of boys and a few older boys coming back from injury at the moment,” the 18-year-old said.
“So I think we’re looking really good for this season… it should be an exciting year ahead for Hawks fans and Hawks players hopefully.”
Drafted as an inside midfielder, Worpel said he’s more than willing to play any position on the ground, should the team need it, as he aims to break into the side for his debut.
“I’ve played a little of junior footy down back and I’ve also played a little bit up forward so I’m pretty comfortable at either end to be honest but probably my best is in the midfield,” he said
“If I have to turn into a small defender or a small forward/medium forward then I’d be pretty comfortable with that but it depends what the team needs and how my footy’s tracking.”
Originally from Bannockburn, just outside of Geelong, Worpel also opened up on the process of joining the Hawks in what was a ‘dream come true’ for the number 38.
“It is a very emotional ride,” Worpel said.
“It’s obviously your dream from a young age for most of us boys to get drafted.”
“I was one of the lucky ones to get picked up and draft day’s probably one of the most exciting days of your life.”
Described as a natural leader, Worpel last year co-captained under-18 side Geelong Falcons to the TAC Cup premiership but said any notion of a leadership role at the Hawks was still some way off.
“I think most people would love to captain an AFL team once in their life but the reality is it’s probably not going to happen for most,” he said.
“But obviously being four months in I haven’t thought too much of cracking my own way into the leadership (group) or anything like that.”
“But maybe in a few years if I’m still kicking around and things are going well, hopefully we’ll just see what happens I guess.”
Read: Draftees impress in Box Hill practice match
