Sir Doug Nicholls Round is always a round that Hawthorn defender Karl Amon circles on the calendar.
This year, the proud Noonuccal man not only gets an opportunity to represent himself, his family and his community, but he also gets to showcase the story of Hawthorn great Chance Bateman.
The fellow Hawks number 10 is the inspiration behind this year’s Indigenous Guernsey design, with Whadjuk, Ballardong and Eastern Arrernte artist, Jade Dolman helping to bring his story to life.
Amon told RSN Breakfast that he couldn’t wait to run out in the club’s specially designed home and away Indigenous Guernseys across Sir Doug Nicholls Round.
“Ours is a really special jumper,” the 28-year-old said.
“We’re lucky enough to wear two jumpers this year, a home and an away, which is really cool.
“The story’s all about ‘Changa’ and where he’s come from, which is over in York, WA.
“It’s about his journey to the AFL and what represents him, so it’s a fantastic guernsey and a really special design.”
Amon formed a relationship with Bateman from the minute he presented him with his debut Hawks guernsey.
Not only do both players share the same number, but they also have similar traits on and off the field.
It’s why Amon is so honoured to wear a guernsey inspired by Bateman in the club’s upcoming games against Yartapuulti and Brisbane.
“Chance presented my guernsey to me and it’s very special to wear the number he wore,” Amon said.
“I’m really looking forward to wearing it this week and next.
“Growing up, I didn’t know a lot about him as a player, but since I’ve gotten into the Hawthorn footy club I’ve learnt how much respect he’s gotten from the playing group and how hard he worked so I’ve certainly struck up a relationship with him since then - he even messaged me for my 150th game.”
After a stellar start to the season, Amon now aims to carry that form into Sir Doug Nicholls Round and beyond.
The reliable defender is averaging 21.6 disposals, 17 kicks, six marks and 543 metres gained from his nine games so far this year and is coming off an impressive performance against St Kilda.
In that five-point win, Amon was instrumental with 31 disposals, 711 metres gained and 11 rebound 50s.
He said consistency was key to his solid form.
“The best thing you can have in AFL are consistent performances and that’s something I really pride myself on,” he said.
“Being one of those older players, the more consistent you can play football, the better it is.
“We’ve also got a really good young core which is really propelling the team to where we want to be.”
Hawthorn opens its Sir Doug Nicholls Round campaign against Yartapuulti on Sunday afternoon at Adelaide Oval before returning home to face Brisbane at Marvel Stadium the following Saturday.
