Hawthorn has presented its bid for an AFLW licence to join the competition in 2019.

A team of Hawthorn representatives, including CEO Tracey Gaudry, President Richard Garvey and Coach Alastair Clarkson, attended AFL House on Thursday afternoon to put forward their case as to why the Hawks deserve a licence in the AFL women’s competition.

Hawthorn’s submission outlines the financial strength of the club and the power of its vast and engaged audience across three key areas: Melbourne and Victoria’s East, Tasmania and Katherine. 

With strong talent pathways already in place at a grassroots level, the application highlights Hawthorn’s readiness to establish a competitive playing list for the 2019 season and beyond.

Hawthorn player Shaun Burgoyne, Box Hill W player Emma Mackie and co-host of The Outer Sanctum podcast Emma Race each presented on their emotional ties to the club and what it would mean for the club to host a women’s side.

Eight clubs submitted bids for a 2019 AFLW licence, with somewhere between two to four licences to be granted. Port Adelaide and Sydney are the only clubs without a licence who have not lodged a bid.

The AFL will now deliberate and are expected to inform clubs of their decision next month.