Hawthorn has farewelled midfielder Jaeger O'Meara on the final day of the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period.

O’Meara and a future fourth-round pick will head the way of Fremantle in exchange for big man Lloyd Meek and a 2023 second-round draft selection.

O’Meara departs the Hawks having played 99 games in the brown and gold after being traded from the Gold Coast Suns at the end of the 2016 season.

The 28-year-old earned the upmost respect from his teammates and coaches during his time at the club, which led to his appointment as vice-captain prior to the 2020 season, as well as serving as stand-in captain for several games in 2022.

Hawthorn National List and Recruiting Manager Mark McKenzie said the deal done with the Dockers puts the club in a strong position.

“We are delighted to be bolstering our draft hand for 2023, while also ensuring a positive outcome for Jaeger to finish his career closer to home,” McKenzie said.

“We have a clear plan to be adding the best possible young talent to the club, and to now add another early pick for next season.

“This year's trade period was the next step in a longer plan to develop our list and return to premiership contention, and we won’t get there if we don’t make bold decisions. 

“The club would like to acknowledge Jaeger’s service to the Hawthorn Football Club over the past six seasons and thank him for his contribution to the Hawks.”
  
It comes after Hawthorn landed talented wingman Karl Amon last week as an unrestricted free agent.

The 27-year-old committed to a four-year deal with the Hawks following 124 games with Port Adelaide.