President Jeff Kennett has penned the following letter to members…
My dear members,
The next chapter in the history of the Hawthorn Football Club is about to be written.
After an extensive process involving players, the football department, senior administrators and the Board, I am happy to announce that Ben Stratton has been selected as captain of the Hawthorn Football Club for season 2019 and beyond.
Read: Stratts to skipper Hawks
Ben will be supported by Jack Gunston, who will take on the role of vice-captain.
They will be joined in the leadership group by Liam Shiels, Isaac Smith, Jaeger O’Meara and Ben McEvoy.
In addition to this group, there will be an Emerging Leaders Group. This group, which we will announce shortly, ensures we provide continuous training and a clear pathway for our future leaders.
I am pleased that Hawthorn has continued with the tradition of one outright captain, and this year introduced a single vice-captain too.
The chain of command among our players is therefore very clear.
The wealth of experience within our leadership group is an indication of the strength of our club and something we should all be buoyed by.
In short, our playing group is strong at the Hawks.
The Board is genuinely excited about our prospects this year, and our new leadership group gives us the experience and drive, to perform and deliver at the highest level.
The Board would like to sincerely thank Jarryd Roughead for his leadership over the last three years. His contribution has given us the opportunity to develop others for these important roles, and laid the foundation for us to build on the success of last year.
We also thank Isaac Smith and Liam Shiels for their contribution as vice-captains.
Many individuals have played for Hawthorn over the years. Few are charged with the honour of its captaincy. Ben Stratton follows in the footsteps a distinguished group of captains throughout our history. It is a great honour, and one of great personal responsibility.
We are confident Ben will handle his new responsibilities with great respect and humility, in the tradition of the Family Club.
There has been a changing of the guard at Hawthorn today. I am excited, I know you our members, will also be excited.
Keep smiling
Jeff Kennett
