Despite not following the traditional TAC Cup path, Ollie Hanrahan landed at the Hawks after an impressive season with St. Kevin's College in Melbourne.
Taken with pick 14 in the Rookie Draft, Hanrahan caught the eye of Hawks recruiters for his performances in the APS v AGSV (school sport leagues) game and the AFL Victoria Young Guns game.
Hawthorn Recruiting and List Manager Graham Wright described the youngster, who will wear number 41 for the Hawks this year, as an athletic half forward/midfielder who impressed with his speed, kicking and decision making.
We spoke to our new draftee to find out how he's handling life as a Hawk.
How have you found pre-season so far?
It's been an eye-opener. It's been really tough, definitely harder than what I expected, from meetings to training and extra sessions, but I've loved the challenge. There's been a lot of ups and everyone has treated me really well. It's been awesome.
Where are you looking to play this year?
Probably half-forward or pushing up onto the wing I'd say.
What are your strengths as a player?
I think my skills and my speed are my two main strengths.
What are the areas that you are looking to improve this pre-season?
Definitely my endurance and running capacity is a big one I am trying to improve. Then also I am working on trying to get bigger and stronger.
Is there anyone at training who you've tried to follow around and emulate?
I've been keeping a close eye on Jack Gunston and Luke Breust. They both play that half-forward type role in the forward line. I've also watched them quite closely over the past few years as well (prior to being drafted). So they are my two I've been watching so far.
What's the best advice/instruction that you've had since arriving at the club?
Probably just recently, (assistant coach) Brett Ratten just told me, "the more you know about the game, the better you will play". So that has really stuck with me. He means that with the more footy knowledge I have, in terms of things like the game plan, the more I will be able to use it to my advantage out on the field.
What are your current living circumstances now you're with the Hawks?
Yeh, I'm still living at home with my younger brother, 16, and younger sister, 9.
Any nicknames Hawks fans should be aware of?
Not really. Just Ollie and Hanro. So nothing exciting really!
Do you have a celebrity crush?
(After much deliberation) ... oh, probably Victoria Beckham actually!
What are your hobbies outside of footy?
Definitely fishing and cricket are my two main hobbies.
What is your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is definitely sharks being in the water with you. Sharks and jellyfish are my two big fears.
What would you be doing if you didn’t get drafted?
I reckon I'd probably be in the UK right now, playing cricket.
If you were a superhero, what would your name and superpower be?
Oh, I've got no idea. I wouldn’t mind flying. And maybe my name could be OllDog. Yeh, Olldog and I can fly sounds good!
