We spoke to Hawthorn’s Director of High Performance Andrew Russell to find out which of our Hawks have impressed him most across the course of the pre-season.
Catch up: Pre-season stars - 4
Name: James Cousins
Age: 19
Guernsey: 46
Senior games (2017): 3
Senior games (career): 3
In his second year on the Hawthorn rookie list, James Cousins is giving every indication that he will build on his promising debut season in 2017.
After playing three senior games before succumbing to a season-ending shoulder injury mid-year, Cousins has returned revitalised and determined to recover the form that earned him senior selection so early in his career.
The hard-nosed midfielder has impressed many around the club as he continues to build his 185cm frame into that of a big-bodied AFL midfielder.
The 19-year old was amongst the leading ball-getters in last Friday night’s intraclub hit out, finishing with 21 disposals, four marks and five clearances.
“On return from shoulder injury, Cuzzy has been able to do 92 percent of the pre-season,” said Russell, full of praise for the youngster.
“His training has been really impressive.
“His strength and power has gone to another level, and he’s looking good heading into the 2018 season.”
We will reveal Russell's final five pre-season stars over the next five days - stay tuned.
