Five to keep in mind: Marc Pittonet

The Hawks have plenty of talented young players who will be looking to become regular fixtures in the Hawthorn side this year.

So, who might we expect to shine?

We’ve put the spotlight on five players with under six years in the AFL system who will be hoping for a breakout year with the Hawks in 2017.

Name: Marc Pittonet
Age: 20
Guernsey: 43
Senior games (2016): 3
Senior games (career): 1
Drafted: Pick no. 50, 2014 NAB AFL Draft.

He’s got the highest number on the Hawks’ senior list, and we’ve got high hopes for him.

We’re pinning Marc Pittonet as one to watch in 2017.

In 2016…
Pittonet started the season on a high, making his debut in Round 1 against Geelong after Jonathan Ceglar was a late withdrawal.

Assisting Ben McEvoy with the ruck duties, he managed six disposals and seven hit-outs. In Round 2, Ceglar was back, and Pittonet spent the next 10 weeks at VFL level.

He had another shot at the big time in Round 12. In the Hawks’ 108-point win over Essendon, Pittonet mustered another six disposals, 11 hit outs, and showed he is willing to go hard at the ball, laying seven tackles.

Pittonet’s last AFL outing was against Collingwood in Round 23, where he managed a career-high 15 hit-outs.

Solid improvement was displayed each time he joined the Hawthorn line-up.

“We love his competitiveness and we look forward to him continuing to develop as a young ruckman within our footy club over the next couple of years,” said Assistant Coach Damian Carroll at the end of the 2016 season.

Where could he slot in?
With Ceglar recovering from a knee reconstruction, Pittonet may find opportunities as a second ruckman alongside McEvoy this year. However, he will have to contend with new recruit Ty Vickery, who is capable of rotating between the ruck and forward line.

Looking fit and eager during the pre-season, Pittonet certainly seems like one to keep your eye on.

And with more and more games under his belt, this young ruckman is only going to get better.¬