Hawthorn draftees Josh Ward and Connor Macdonald will live out their AFL dreams when they make their debuts against North Melbourne.
The pair will don the brown and gold in front of Hawthorn fans at the MCG this Sunday.
Jaeger to skipper in pair's absence
Ward, a lifelong Hawks fan, has earned the Round 1 call-up following an impressive block of form throughout his first pre-season, having consistently been praised by coach Sam Mitchell and his teammates.
Fellow first-year Hawk Macdonald has also made an early impression, showing promising signs on the track and in both the club’s practice games against Collingwood and Richmond.
Head of Football Rob McCartney says the day will mark a special occasion for the youngsters and their families.
“We’re thrilled that both Josh and Connor will make their AFL debuts on Sunday, they really deserve this opportunity,” McCartney said.
“They have worked incredibly hard over the course of the pre-season and produced some eye-catching performances in our practice matches.
“First games are special moments, but to be able to do this alongside each other makes it even that more special.”
At just 18 years of age, Ward hasn’t missed a beat since arriving to the club through Pick 7 in last year’s National Draft.
The youngster has provided plenty of excitement with his running capability and clean skills, while quickly earning the respect of his peers for his work ethic and maturity.
He first turned heads at the start of the pre-season after claiming the club’s time trial honours.
Then, in the AAMI Series hit-out against Richmond a fortnight ago, he continued to show just what he’s capable of in the when he collected a team-high 29 disposals.
Taken as pick 26 in last year’s draft, Macdonald averaged 30 disposals last year in the NAB League for the Dandenong Stingrays.
In Hawthorn’s intraclub hit-out earlier this month, the youngster became a noticeable influence on the game with his neat foot skills, pace and poise around the contest.
Not only has the 19-year-old has impressed his teammates with his skill level, but also with his attitude and confidence around the club in his first pre-season.
The Hawks will face North Melbourne at 1.10pm this Sunday.
The full Hawks squad will be released tonight, before the team of 22 to take on the Kangaroos is announced tomorrow via hawthornfc.com.au.
