Hawthorn Football Club is delighted to welcome Michael Ericson as its new Box Hill VFLW Senior Coach and AFLW Development Coach.

Ericson brings a wealth of knowledge to the Hawks, having spent time as a Development Coach with the Northern Blues from 2015 to 2017, a Senior Assistant Coach with Essendon VFLW in 2018 and as Senior Coach of Darebin VFLW in 2019.

Off the football field, Ericson is a teacher, specialising in sport and physical education subjects.

The incoming dual coach said he was excited to join the Hawks ahead of the 2024 AFLW and VFLW seasons.

“What drew me to the role was the opportunity to work in an AFL-aligned program, a club that everyone has wanted to emulate ever since I’ve been in footy,” Ericson said.

“It’s going to be great to combine those two programs, work with the best players and really build a cohesive group.  

“To build a group that loves to spend time together on and off the footy field, we want to really build that one club approach where everyone contributes positively to the group.”

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Operations Max Bailey said the addition of Ericson would strengthen both the club’s AFLW and VFLW programs.

“With both of our VFLW and AFLW programs featuring young and emerging talent on our lists, we look forward to having Michael and his development-focused approach as part of each team,” Bailey said.

“In his dual role as Box Hill VFLW Senior Coach and AFLW Development Coach, Michael will help further strengthen the alignment between our AFLW and VFLW teams. 

“Michael’s enthusiasm, coupled with his role as a teacher, will benefit both playing groups as we work towards a big year in 2024.”