Hawthorn Coach Sam Mitchell says he is pleased with the development and growth of the club’s younger players as the team edges closer to its 2022 season opener.

Despite going down to Richmond by 25-points in a practice game in Devonport on Saturday, Mitchell said there were plenty of positives to come from the game.  

“We made some adjustments, we’re continuing to evolve – we saw more to like in our game this week,” Mitchell said.

“Some of our younger players got a bit more exposure today – they stepped up and we had some strong performances from some of those younger fellas.

“We’re really trying to invest time in the development of the younger players. They have a great ability to learn and absorb information, they’re so diligent.”

The Tigers dominated early in the game, but a strong third quarter from the Hawks helped scale back the lead.

One of the highlights of the day was the 29-disposal performance from draftee Josh Ward.

In his first pre-season match last week Ward played mostly on the wing, whereas on Saturday he played the entire game on-ball.

“Wardy has been working really hard on his game to improve to make himself ready to play AFL-standard football,” Mitchell said.

“He stood up for us and led the game for contested positions and was really strong.”

The hit-out was a tribute match to the Devonport community, following the tragedy that occurred at Hillcrest Primary School last year.

Mitchell said he hoped the club was able to have made a positive impact on the local community.

“That was what we were here really trying to do,” he said.  

“It’s not often that you see two rival clubs working as closely together to get something up off the ground.”

Hear the full presser from Mitchell below.