Hawthorn has extended its long-standing and successful partnership with the Tasmanian Government for another two years, ensuring the club’s presence remains in the state until at least the end of 2027.
The extension means that the Hawks will continue to host four home matches per season at UTAS Stadium in Launceston, where the club has enjoyed a stunning winning record for more than two decades.
Since 2001, Hawthorn has won 61 of a possible 82 games at UTAS Stadium (75% winning record), making it one of the most successful records for any club at any venue in the league.
Tasmania has also played host to some of the most memorable Hawthorn games over the past 24 years, including Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin’s 13-goal haul, last year’s Blue Ribbon Cup, Sir Doug Nicholls Round, ANZAC Day matches, as well as the state’s much-loved Emergency Services Match.
Off the field, the Hawks continue to have a meaningful impact in the Tasmanian community, with programs that address mental health, literacy, food education, physical education and road and safety education.
Coupled with an investment in junior football, curriculum-aligned school programs and efforts to make the club’s match days accessible to all, Hawthorn has prided itself on its immense footprint in the Tasmanian community.
Hawthorn President Andy Gowers said:
“Launceston has long been a happy hunting ground for the Hawks, and we’re thrilled about hosting games there until the end of 2027.
“With the Tasmanian Devils due to make their debut in the competition in 2028, this extension is the perfect fit for the footy-loving public in Launceston.
Hawthorn CEO Ash Klein said:
“We can't wait to continue our special connection with Tasmania in 2025 and beyond.
“Since playing our first game in Tasmania almost 25 years ago, Hawthorn is proud to be bringing AFL games to the state, whilst positively impacting locals through meaningful community programs.
“There are obviously many economic benefits that the matches bring to the local community but what is clear is that our team absolutely loves playing in Launceston, winning almost eight out of every 10 games we play there."
Hawthorn Senior Coach Sam Mitchell said:
“We’ve played four games there per year for such a long time and I think we have such a competitive advantage there.
“On-field as the current head coach and I would say over my playing time, we probably averaged an extra win per season because of the four games.
“We love going there, we love spending time there, but we also love winning there and we seem to have been able to do that on a pretty consistent basis. I’m really proud of the club and the Tassie Government for continuing the partnership in a changing world.”
