Hawthorn has added Flynn Perez to its rookie list for the 2026 season, as part of the pre-season supplemental selection period (SSP).

The former North Melbourne defender joined the group as a train-on player pre-Christmas and has impressed during his short stint at the Kennedy Community Centre to date. 

Drafted to Arden Street with Pick 35 in 2019, Perez played 24 games for the Kangaroos before being delisted following an injury-interrupted three seasons at the highest level. 

More recently, the 187cm Bendigo product has spent the past two seasons in South Australia playing for Sturt in the SANFL, which included a starring role in his side’s 2025 grand final win. 

Hawthorn National Recruiting and List Manager Mark McKenzie congratulated Perez on his signing. 

“Flynn has made a seamless transition into our program since joining us pre-Christmas, and we’re delighted to give him his next opportunity at AFL level,” McKenzie said. 

“At 24, we’re confident Flynn can make an immediate impact within our Club, he is a person of high character with a strong work ethic and possesses some dangerous weapons with his competitiveness, agility, and ball use from half back. 

“With a second chance at realising his AFL dream, we are excited about the further growth and progression ahead of Flynn as he begins his journey in the brown and gold.”