With almost a full pre-season under their belt, Hawthorn’s draftees have each made positive steps in their development since arriving at the club.
Hawks’ defender Ben Stratton told RSN Breakfast radio on Tuesday morning that he has been thoroughly impressed with the club’s newest additions.
“All of the draftees bring their own little thing to the club.
“They’ve got a fair bit of developing to do, but hopefully we see a fair bit of them through the VFL and hopefully one or two of them might debut this year.”
One young Hawk in particular caught Stratton’s eye during Hawthorn’s recent intra-club match at the Ricoh Centre.
“Ollie Hanrahan had a standout game.
“I was watching him from the other end and thought he played really well.
“He moved really well and has a good lateral step.
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Stratton, who is entering his eighth AFL season at the club, is set to take on greater leadership responsibilities this year, having been elevated into Hawthorn’s seven-man leadership group during the pre-season.
With some high-profile departures during the off season, Stratton believes the club’s depth will make for a smooth transition.
“We’ve got a good young leadership group that has been coming up behind the older players who have been slowly leaving, so that’s really important for the club.
“I think over the last two or three years we’ve always had good depth… and [our young players] are more than ready [to step up].”
