RUCKMAN Ben McEvoy has described this year as a “fairy tale” after winning a premiership in his first season at the Hawks.

McEvoy was rocked when he was approached by his manager at the end of last year about a possible move to the Hawks after six years at St Kilda.

It was a difficult decision for the emerging ruckman, who at the time was a member of the Saints’ leadership group.

In the end the chance to play for the reigning premiers was too hard to ignore, describing the move at the time as an “exceptional opportunity.”

While the year was far from smooth sailing for McEvoy, ultimately he achieved what he hoped with the Hawks.

“I’m still pinching myself,” McEvoy told hawthornfc.com.au

“I can’t find words to describe this, it’s just awesome.

“We all want to play finals – I just feel so lucky.

“To win a premiership in my first year, it’s a bit of a fairy tale.”

There was plenty of speculation about the final ruck spot leading into Saturday’s decider against the Swans, with McEvoy pushing for selection after a string of best on ground performances in the VFL.

On the outer since being omitted in Round 22, McEvoy did everything in his power to earn back his spot from young ruckman Jonathon Ceglar and it took until the final game for the year to wrestle it back.

While the media was speculating whether he’d earn a recall after being rested from Box Hill’s VFL Grand Final loss to Footscray, McEvoy already knew his fate.

After the Grand Final win, McEvoy revealed Alastair Clarkson informed him of his selection early in the week.

“I was pretty pumped. There might have even been a few expletives when I got told,” McEvoy said.

“I was just absolutely rapt and grateful for the opportunity.

“I found out pretty early in the week so that was good that I was able to prepare myself.

“I just went about my business and thankfully it’s all worked out.”

Ben McEvoy with Coach Alastair Clarkson after the siren on Grand Final day.