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 - 3

Name: Ben Stratton 

Age: 28

Guernsey: 24

Senior games (2017): 8

Senior games (career): 146

Stratton has been a standout this preseason after a knee-injury ruined much of his 2017 season, restricting him to just the first eight games.

The defender hasn’t missed a beat over the summer, finishing fourth in the club’s 2.2km time trial in November before crossing the finish line in 3^rd spot in January. 

Stratton also showed signs he’ll be set to return to top form this season after a promising 11 disposals and three marks, as well some impressive defensive efforts, in the Hawks’ intraclub hit-out.

Set to be a welcome return to what was a youthful backline last year, Stratton will provide added flexibility and leadership as the Hawks hope for an improved 2018. 

“Stratto’s returning from his PCL injury,” said Russell.

“He was slightly modified before Christmas in terms of the amount of football skills he completed, but he’s done a significant part of the program since Christmas.

“Those who saw him in the intraclub trial game would know he moved really, really well, so he’s full of confidence heading into the season.” 

Russell will reveal his remaining six pre-season stars across the next week.