Hawthorn has pulled off a major recruiting coup, with the addition of two experienced AFLW stars onto its growing list.

Defender Louise Stephenson and forward Sarah Perkins have both committed to signing with the brown and gold.  

Both players have featured in the AFLW since its inaugural season and will form part of Hawthorn’s spine for the upcoming season.

Originally from Victoria, Stephenson played 33 games for the GWS Giants.

The hard-working defender is set to play a key role in the brown and gold as its key post, according to AFLW List Manager Mitchell Cashion.

“Lou is a professional in the way she goes about it and will play as our number one key defender,” Cashion said.

“We know she can shut down players but we can also trust her ball use and decision-making.”

Perkins will be returning to the club she has supported since she was a child following stints with Adelaide, Melbourne and Gold Coast at AFLW level. 

She will also reunite with her inaugural AFLW coach Bec Goddard, who recruited the 28-year-old back in 2016 ahead of the league’s debut the following year.

Cashion was excited about Perkins’ potential in the brown and gold.

“Sarah is a proven goal-kicker and former All Australian full forward,” Cashion said.

“She is a fan favourite in the Hawthorn community and will finally get to pull on the jumper of the team she’s supported since she was a child.

“We look forward to her reuniting with Bec Goddard, who gave Sarah her chance in the AFLW back in 2016.” 

Stephenson and Perkins’ commitment means Hawthorn now has seven players with AFLW experience on its list. 

Tilly Lucas-Rodd, Jess Duffin, Akec Makur Chuot and Janet Baird all declared their intent to sign with the Hawks on Monday, joining Tegan Cunningham for the upcoming season. 

The Hawks look forward to announcing more exciting signings in the coming days and weeks.