Dear Hawthorn faithful,
Celebrating Hawthorn’s 100 years in the VFL/AFL was always going to be special, but the occasion on Sunday afternoon was out of this world. I have never been more proud of our wonderful football club than I was yesterday.
From past greats to living Legends (and everyone else in between), the collection of Hawthorn people all together at the MCG was simply unforgettable.
Our mystery narrator Shane Crawford did a superb job at taking us through the highs and lows of the past 100 years that have made Hawthorn the club that it is today. A large part of that is thanks to you, our loyal and passionate members that have stood by us through thick and thin. For that, we say thank you for your ongoing support. We hope you enjoyed the celebrations.
What stood out most to me was the overwhelming sense of joy that was felt right throughout the stadium on Sunday afternoon. To see the beaming smiles of those in the crowd, along with our collection of past players on the field, spoke volumes about how much our club means to so many people. There’s no denying Hawthorn has been synonymous with success over 100 years in the VFL/AFL with 13 amazing premierships. But for me, the strength of our club is what unites us all – connecting so many people from different walks of life – all with a common love for the brown and gold.
Fittingly, our faithful were on their feet for a different standing ovation during the game – with three-time premiership star Jack Gunston booting his 500th career goal during the third quarter. What a spine-tingling moment that was. Gunners has been an incredible servant of our club over many years and wasn’t it just fantastic for him to bring that milestone up in our Centenary Match?!
In addition to Sunday’s amazing celebrations, we were fortunate to welcome 13 former stars from each of our 13 premierships to the club last week, to dish up a special surprise to our current players and staff ahead of the match. In a creative twist on the number 13, our ‘baker’s dozen’ of former greats each had a premiership cup cake to match their prized silverware, which made for a fantastic morning tea following training. Maintaining our club’s connection with Hawthorn’s past custodians that have paved the way is something that we take great pride in, and we know you do too.
To the more than 700 Hawthorn past players, officials and families at the MCG on Sunday afternoon (and those that were unable to be with us in person), we thank you for your service to the brown and gold. The contributions that you have made to our great club is something we are all indebted to you for. You are all integral members of the Hawthorn fabric, and always will be.
And to our more than 80,000+ loyal, passionate and proud Hawthorn members – thank you sincerely for your support. We say it time and time again, but members are the lifeblood of our football club – and we would be nothing without you. Sunday’s celebrations are something that we will cherish for many years to come, and whether you were part of it at the MCG or watching from home, we hope we made you proud.
Going on to record our sixth win for the season really capped of an extraordinary day, which now sets us up well for the next portion of our fixture. Having only just turned the calendars to May, there are so many great things to come in the season ahead, and we look forward to having you with us all the way.
Go the Mighty Fighting Hawks!!
