A pair of star recruits are set to make their club debuts in Hawthorn’s season opener against Sydney on Friday night at the SCG.
Following strong maiden pre-seasons at the Hawks, defensive duo Tom Barrass and Josh Battle will don the brown and gold for the first time in an exciting sight for Hawthorn fans.
Barrass arrived at the Hawks via the 2024 Trade Period, following a 10-year stint with the West Coast Eagles where he experienced premiership success and won a club best and fairest award.
The 29-year-old has already impressed with his leadership and professionalism this pre-season, adding a new dimension to Hawthorn’s backline alongside fellow recruit Battle.
JOIN THE HAWKS IN 2025! CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR POPULAR MEMBERSHIP OPTIONS
A childhood Hawthorn supporter, Battle joined the brown and gold as a restricted free agent after 123 games for St Kilda.
Following top-10 finishes in St Kilda’s last three consecutive best and fairest counts, the 26-year-old is shaping up for a big maiden season with the Hawks.
How does Josh Battle not know what ravioli is 😭 pic.twitter.com/9JjARQqR7r
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) February 20, 2025
Hawthorn Executive General Manager Rob McCartney congratulated the pair on their debuts.
“We identified a need for key backs in our list build a number of years ago and obviously this last off-season, we’ve been able to execute a strategy that’s brought both Tom and Josh to our club,” McCartney said.
“In the pre-season, we’ve seen them build their synergy with our back six and that will only grow over the coming years at the club.
“What we can’t underestimate too is that both of them are outstanding men who bring an extra layer of depth and character to our group.
“We’re really excited by what they’re about to do in the brown and gold.”
Hawthorn will unveil its full Opening Round team on hawthornfc.com.au on Thursday evening at 6.20pm AEDT.
