New Hawk Mikayla Williamson is “beyond stoked” to be joining the brown and gold ahead of the 2024 season.

Hawthorn drafted the speedy midfielder with Pick 17 in Monday night’s AFLW draft after the 18-year-old made the Coates Talent League Team of the Year, the Under 18 All Australian team and broke the all-time 2km time trial record.

Williamson was elated to hear her name called out as a Hawthorn player. 

“My reaction probably explained it. I was just so shocked and overwhelmed, but super happy,” she said.

The reaction in question saw Williamson burst into tears when her name was read out at Marvel Stadium. 

It was a case of emotions spilling over, as she admitted her nerves were high on draft day.

“I was definitely nervous but I was just trying to be excited and take on the experience,” Williamson said.

At the Hawks, Williamson will link up with fellow Dandenong Stingray Sophie Butterworth, who the club selected with Pick 45. 

Hawthorn defender Mackenzie Eardley also has a strong connection to the Stingrays, having coached and played with Williamson and Butterworth.

Williamson said she was excited to link up with the duo again, highlighting Eardley as someone she is keen to play with in 2024.

“I obviously played with (Mack) at the Stingrays so I’m so happy to be back with her,” she said.

“(I’m also excited to play with) Jas Fleming because she’s a very good player in my eyes and I never got to play with her.”

The midfielder’s accolades speak for themselves but it’s Williamson’s qualities as a midfielder that Hawks fans are certain to enjoy come 2024.

“I’m definitely an outside player, one that likes to run and move the ball forward and put some speed on the game,” she said.

Watch Williamson’s full interview below (including a funny moment at the end!)