Hawthorn will make history later this year when it hosts the first ever AFLW match for premierships points at the Kennedy Community Centre.

With the 2026 AFLW fixture to be officially announced by the league tomorrow, the historic inaugural fixture at KCC, will be one of multiple home games for the Hawks at the world-class facility in Dingley, across the 2026 AFLW season.

It has been 53 years since Hawthorn last played for premiership points at its home base (back at Glenferrie Oval in 1973), making these games at KCC a significant homecoming for the brown and gold.

With the support of State and Federal and Local Governments, the purpose-built AFLW Oval at the Kennedy Community Centre is a ready-made elite venue. It features grandstand seating, full broadcast facilities, floodlights, and most importantly, dedicated amenities and changerooms for women’s players at the highest level.

With Hawthorn set to host AFLW games at the KCC in 2026 and beyond, it will bid farewell to its former home ground in Frankston (Kinetic Stadium), after serving the Club since its inaugural AFLW season in 2022.

Hawthorn President Andy Gowers said:

“We can’t wait to see the first of our AFLW Hawks make history when they play for premiership points at the Kennedy Community Centre, paving the way for the next generation of female footy stars.

“I’d like to acknowledge the support of State, Federal and Local Governments in bringing our elite, purpose-built AFLW venue to life – the next step for this incredible facility is hosting top-tier women’s footy into the future.

“This is also a win for the Hawthorn faithful and wider footy community, with the KCC a wonderful place to attend and watch games in a family-friendly atmosphere.”