Kade Stewart has been a surprise stand-out for the Hawks so far in the 2017 JLT Community Series.
With Hawks midfield roles emerging following the departures of club stalwarts Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis, Stewart has put his hand up as a very able replacement.
In the opening two games of the pre-season, the skilful left-footer has averaged 13.5 disposals, 5.5 tackles, four marks and is the only Hawk to have kicked multiple goals in both games.
In true Hawks style, Stewart has also been extremely efficient with his ball-use, missing his target on only five of his 27 disposals so far.
Undoubtedly the highlight of Stewart's JLT Series was against Geelong when he calmly slotted through the winning goal after the siren for the Hawks.
“I didn’t have a clue [how much longer there was in the game,” said Stewart after the narrow victory.
“I think the boys kept it pretty quiet as they didn’t want to put the pressure on me.
“Rough just told me to take my time and kick it through, and that’s where it went.”
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Taken with the 36th pick in the 2015 rookie draft, the Western Australian enjoyed an impressive debut season at the Ricoh Centre last year.
Stewart debuted in round 11 against Melbourne and quickly excited Hawks fans with one of his strengths, tackling, as he laid nine tackles, the most ever by a Hawthorn debutant.
He finished season 2016 having played three senior games, averaging 12 touches, four tackles and a goal a game.
Stewart was also a force in his team with Box Hill in the VFL last year, averaging 15 disposals, 5.5 tackles, five marks and over a goal a game in his 14 games.
