We've heard Alastair Clarkson reference the term repeatedly already in this young campaign.

"Celebrating the little wins".

The act of recognising the moments of achievement within a season that might otherwise go unnoticed across the broader footy public.

In the opening three weeks of the Hawks year, there has been plenty that falls under this category - especially amongst the club's younger ranks. 

Let's take a look at them.

MATCH REPORT: Easter Monday thriller ends in heartbreak

The Hawks 2021 campaign kicked off with an incredible one-point win over Essendon.

It took an almighty second half comeback to overtake the Dons but what was most impressive for the Hawks faithful about the victory was that the fightback was generated largely by the younger members of the side.

Dylan Moore catapulted the Hawks back into the game with three third quarter goals, with the trifecta becoming his career-best in front of the big sticks.

Playing predominantly on a wing, Harry Morrison also chimed in with two goals against the Bombers, the first time he has hit the scoreboard multiple times in a game. 

Debutant Tyler Brockman also gave a wonderful first impression, booting the first goal of his career and then another before the night was out.

At the other end of the ground, Will Day was a picture of composure despite the high-pressure stakes, collecting career-highs of 28 disposals and seven rebound 50s.

The Hawks backed up their heart-stopping season opener with another strong performance against Richmond albeit ultimately failing to overcome the reigning premiers. 

02:15

Despite the loss, it was again a collection of young Hawks who stepped up with some of the best performances of their fledgling careers.

Changkuoth Jiath and Blake Hardwick anchored the Hawks with aplomb from the defensive line, hitting unprecedented numbers of 25 and 31 possessions respectively. 

Making his debut the previous week, Jacob Koschitzke kicked the first of hopefully many goals for the brown and gold in front of a home MCG crowd.

Which takes us to the week just gone, a "close but no cigar" loss to Geelong. 

Jaeger O'Meara was a key reason for the Hawks competitiveness throughout, with his 13 clearances a career-high and a feature of his performance.

Meanwhile, the backline contingent again held strong, holding last year's grand finalists to their lowest score of the season.

Jarman ImpeyJack Scrimshaw and CJ each recorded 10 marks, another career-best for each of the trio.

Obviously Hawks supporters would much rather be singing the song at the final siren each week, but you can't help but get excited by these minor victories for our developing youth. 

 

Career-high numbers recorded by young Hawks in opening three rounds

Round 1

Dylan Moore - three goals 

Harry Morrison - two goals 

Tyler Brockman and Jacob Koschitzke - debut

Brockman - first career goal

Round 2

Blake Hardwick - 31 disposals 

Changkuoth Jiath - 25 disposals 

Koschitzke - first career goal

Round 3

Jaeger O'Meara - 13 clearances 

Jarman Impey, Changkuoth Jiath and Jack Scrimshaw - 10 marks