Hawthorn has continued to evolve in its AFLW journey, successfully wrapping up its inaugural W Academy program on the weekend.

The academy ran throughout November and December, with the program including six sessions of skill development, player mentoring and education.

Hawks launch Women’s Football Advisory Group

The weekly Saturday sessions were led by Hawthorn’s VFLW coaches and players, including new senior coach Cherie O’Neill.

Three-time premiership Hawk Jack Gunston and newly appointed academy manager Keegan Brooksby were also involved over the course of the program.

More than 50 promising players participated in the program, coming from a range of NAB League, VFLW and community football programs.

GM – Operations & Major Projects Josh Vanderloo said he was thrilled with how the program unfolded.

“Hawthorn’s involvement in the AFLW competition will come around quickly and this was a great way to start things off with an eye to the future,” Vanderloo said.

“I hope all the Hawthorn fans watch the AFLW competition this season and imagine how good it will be once we have a team representing the club.”

The program aimed to provide promising players with another developmental touch point ahead of the 2022 season.

It also enabled Hawthorn’s recruiting team to have a closer look at prospective talents as it prepares to build a strong and competitive list ahead of its entry into the AFLW competition in Season 7.

The club will now continue to scope out what the AFLW program will look like around senior coach Bec Goddard.

Hawthorn announced the establishment of a Women’s Football Advisory Group earlier this month which includes nine passionate Hawthorn people boasting a range of experience and areas of expertise.

Anyone who wants to pledge their support to Hawthorn's AFLW journey can do so by purchasing a Foundation Membership.