In her first AFLW game in 364 days, Hawthorn ruck Tamara Luke starred.

The 35-year-old recorded a game-high 42 hit-outs to go with 10 disposals, six tackles and two clearances in her comeback game from an ACL injury. 

It has been a long journey for the leadership group member, who went from captaining the Hawks' VFLW team to being recruited and then delisted by St Kilda's AFLW team to sitting on the sidelines for the majority of her first season in Hawks colours.

Things are now on the up for Luke, after being reappointed as a leadership group member to now getting through her comeback game unscathed. 

Speaking to the media post-game, Hawthorn coach Bec Goddard was incredibly complimentary of Luke's return. 

"I think that's one really great highlight out of the game for us," Goddard said.

"Tam got through the game, did really well with her hit-outs and she's a great leader too.

"It was good to have her back in the team."

Hawthorn Captain Tilly Lucas-Rodd added: "We call her 'the beast' and she really was beast mode at times."

Luke and her team's attention now turns to MARS Stadium, Ballarat, where the Hawks are set to do battle with the Bulldogs on Sunday at 1.05pm.

Hear more from Goddard and Lucas-Rodd below.