IT’S a new year and we’re pretty excited about the challenges that lie ahead for the team in 2016.
There’s sure to be plenty of talented young Hawks vying for senior berths over the next couple of months of pre-season training and NAB Challenge matches.
We’ve taken a look at 10 second-to-sixth year players who will be hoping they can push their names into the frame for regular senior selection this year.
Name: Billy Hartung
Age: 20
Guernsey: 4
Height: 177cm
Weight: 76 kg
Games (2015): 20
Games (career): 27
Drafted: Pick 24, 2013 NAB AFL Draft
After the disappointment of being left out of last year’s premiership side, Billy Hartung will be determined to make 2016 his season.
He turns 21 later this month, and with 27 games already under his belt, looms as an important player this year.
According to the 2015 AFL Season Guide…
Both player and club were delighted with Hartung’s debut season. Despite a mid-year elbow injury, he played seven AFL games, averaged 12 disposals despite wearing the sub’s vest on six occasions and looked comfortable with his zippy outside run, neat skills and clean disposal. Blessed with elite speed and endurance.
In 2015…
In just his second year, Hartung broke through for 20 games, building on his seven in 2014.
Nominated for the NAB AFL Rising star award after collecting 26 disposals against Melbourne in Round 7, Hartung was also part of Hawks’ winning semi and preliminary final sides, before making way for Jack Gunston for the grand final.
Where would he slot in?
Having experienced the heartbreak of missing the grand final side the young midfielder looks set to be a crucial ingredient in the Hawks’ engine room.
With his run and carry, speed and pressure skills, Hartung – alongside Bradley Hill and Isaac Smith – will no doubt have an important role to play in 2016.
Hartung will be hoping fewer interchanges and no sub role this year will work in his favour at the selection table.
Pre-season update…
Hartung has already returned to pre-season determined, taking out the 2.2-kilometre time trial ahead of fellow speedster Isaac Smith, who had previously held the crown for the past two pre-Christmas runs.
