The Hawthorn Football Club extends its sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Hawthorn Hall of Fame member Brian Kann, who passed away on Tuesday aged 85.

Kann gave tremendous service to the club in numerous roles across the past 65 years.

Kann played 57 games for Hawthorn between 1954 and 1959. 

He holds the unique record of being the only player to have played with the Under 15s, 17s and 19s, where he served as captain as well as playing in two premierships, before playing for Hawthorn City, the 2^nd 18 and then finally the senior 18. 

A strongly-built defender, Kann had a reputation for striking fear into even his most intimidating opponents. 

His playing career with Hawthorn was highlighted by his captaining of consecutive Reserves flags in 1958 and 1959, but his greatest service to the club came after his playing days.

Noted for his leadership qualities throughout his football, Brian was invited to join Hawthorn’s Committee in 1976, where he served for 17 years.

In 1978, he introduced the Hawk Talk magazine to members and, in 1981, Kann received his well earnt Life Membership at the club. 

He continued to play a major role with the development of the Social Club, in which he served as president from 1997 till 2001. He also played a leading role in Operation Payback in 1997, opposing the proposed merger and keeping the Hawthorn Football Club alive. 

In the inception of the Hawks Museum in 1992, Kann was also the first former player to donate a jumper to the club collection.

His generosity and enthusiasm for all things Hawthorn will always be remembered fondly by those he interacted with.