When the 2020 fixture was released last October, one of the highlights of Hawthorn’s schedule was an Anzac Day clash against the West Coast Eagles at UTAS Stadium.

The Round 6 blockbuster was set to be the first time Hawthorn had opened proceedings on the commemorative day on the Australian calendar with the traditional Essendon – Collingwood match-up to follow. 

Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves has expressed his disappointment for the club to be missing such an honour and opportunity.

“We’re devastated that we won’t be able to play this historic game for our club this weekend,” Reeves said.

“It was a huge highlight of our 2020 fixture that we were both excited and honoured to be able to partake in.”

But while Hawks fans won’t have the ability to celebrate the ANZAC Spirit at UTAS Stadium, Hawthorn is supporting an alternative method for the supporter base to show their respects this Saturday.

“Despite these unique times, I think it is extremely important that we remember those who served our country,” Reeves said.

“Even whilst we are apart this weekend, I encourage everyone to stand in front of their house at 6am this Saturday morning and light a candle in honour of the ANZAC spirit.

“This spirit is an incredibly important part of what it means to be Australian and our current circumstances shouldn’t interfere with our ability to commemorate just that.”