Hawthorn has added Matilda Van Berkel to its AFLW list as a replacement player ahead of the 2026 season.

The 23-year-old joins Hawthorn after four seasons with the Box Hill Hawks in the VFLW.

A key presence in defence for the Hawks, Van Berkel was elevated to Vice-Captain ahead of this season. Across five games to date in 2026, she has averaged 19 disposals and four marks per game.

Earlier this year Van Berkel also represented Victoria in the VFLW v SANFLW State Game, finishing with 12 disposals, three marks and three tackles in Victoria’s two-point loss.

Just 12 months ago, Van Berkel enjoyed a stellar 2025 campaign where she was named Box Hill VFLW Club Champion, in addition to earning selection in the VFLW Team of the Year at centre half-back.   

Hawthorn General Manager of AFLW Keegan Brooksby said Van Berkel is a valuable addition to the squad.

“Matilda has worked incredibly hard and deserves this opportunity,” Brooksby said.

“Matilda is someone we know well through our strong Box Hill alignment and as a train on player in our program. She has consistently developed her game and has emerged as a player we believe can have a strong impact to our environment for the 2026 season.”

“Matilda is a reliable defender, with strong hands and a tenacious approach around the ground, we look forward to seeing her bring those skills to our program and further develop at AFLW level.”

Van Berkel’s signing comes off the back of Emily Everist being placed on the inactive list for the 2026 season, after rupturing her ACL at training earlier this month.