IT’S a new year and we’re pretty excited about the challenges that lie ahead for the team in 2016.

There’s sure to be plenty of talented young Hawks vying for senior berths over the next couple of months of pre-season training and NAB Challenge matches.

We’ve taken a look at 10 second-to-sixth year players who will be hoping they can push their names into the frame for regular senior selection this year.

Name: Tim O’Brien
Age: 21
Guernsey: 23
Height: 193 cm
Weight: 84 kg
Games (2015): 0
Games (career): 4
Drafted: Pick no. 28, NAB AFL Draft 2012

After making his debut in 2014, versatile forward Tim O’Brien developed his game at VFL level in 2015.

He will be hoping to break through for some senior opportunity in 2016.

According to the 2015 AFL Season Guide…

The Hawks’ first selection at the 2012 NAB AFL Draft enjoyed his first taste of senior footy in 2014, with four games and two goals, playing primarily in the forward line.

He continued to develop at Box Hill and the challenge is to stake his claim as a tall marking target in the strong Hawthorn forward line.

In 2015…

Despite not managing to add to his senior games tally in 2015, O’Brien performed consistently at VFL level, kicking 25 goals across 20 games for Box Hill.

His focus was on developing his versatility at both ends of the ground – spending time in defence as well as attack – and being more aggressive in the contest.

O’Brien re-signed with the Hawks in May, and is tied to the club until the end of 2017.

Where would he slot in?

O’Brien will look to build on his improvement in 2015, but could face a tough challenge breaking into the Hawks’ side as a tall forward.

With the likes of Jarryd Roughead and Jack Gunston permanent fixtures – and Ryan Schoenmakers establishing himself in last year’s finals series – the 23-year-old will have to work hard for an opportunity.

But with the retirement of David Hale, O’Brien offers another tall, mobile marking option inside 50.

Pre-season update...

O'Brien returned to training with the club's first-to-fourth year players in late December.