After almost three seasons on Hawthorn’s list, Oliver Hanrahan is preparing to make his AFL debut this Saturday.

A talented footballer and cricketer in his youth, Hanrahan was drafted to the Hawks with Pick 14 in 2017 Rookie Draft.

While injury somewhat hampered his 2018 campaign, the crafty forward found his feet in 2019, playing a key role in Box Hill’s premiership-winning campaign. 

According to GM-Football Graham Wright, the 21-year-old has earned his opportunity through perseverance and consistent hard work.

“We’re really pleased for Ollie,” Wright said.

“He’s completed a long apprenticeship at Box Hill and has continued to hone his craft with each game.

“He’s got good leg speed, impressive decision making and has been a consistent goal scorer, so we’re really excited to see what he can produce at senior level.”

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Evidence of Hanrahan’s footy smarts came in Box Hill’s elimination final last year, when he nailed a dribble kick on the siren and sent the game into overtime. The Hawks would go onto win that game and, three weeks later, the VFL premiership. 

Hanrahan will make his AFL debut in front of a home ground at the MCG, as the Hawks and Eagles battle it out for the Beyond Blue cup.