HAWTHORN has upgraded rookie Derick Wanganeen onto the primary list on the eve of Round 1.
The small defender has replaced injured forward Brendan Whitecross, who was placed on the long-term injury list earlier this month following a second knee reconstruction in as many years.
Wanganeen has impressed over the pre-season after being delisted and then re-rookied by the Club at the end of last season having spent the maximum three years on the rookie list between 2011 and 2013.
He played as a small defender in his three NAB Challenge matches, following a successful move into defence in the middle of last year.
Originally drafted as a small forward from Port Adelaide Magpies, Wanganeen spent the second half of last season with Box Hill in defence, with his run and carry out of the backline one of his biggest strengths.
He proved a key componenet in Box Hill’s 2013 premiership win, with his foot skills and ability to read the play a welcome addition to the side.
With the retirement of Brent Guerra and a backline missing Ben Stratton, Brian Lake and Ryan Schoenmakers on Saturday, Wanganeen could be in the frame to make his senior debut on Saturday against Brisbane.
The Hawks will announce their team for the season opener on Thursday night at 6.25 on hawthornfc.com.au
