A RETURN date for Ryan Schoenmakers has been set, with the Hawthorn defender set to return via the VFL next weekend.
The young defender, who was forced to watch from the sidelines as his teammates achieved the ultimate success last year is expected to play in VFL affiliate, Box Hill’s season opener against Williamstown next Saturday.
It will have been just over 11 months since he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in Round 4 last season.
Since then though, the 22 year old has worked hard at his rehabilitation and dedicated his time to becoming bigger and stronger and ready to take on the league’s biggest and best forwards.
“He’s due to return next week for Box Hill,” General Manager – Football Operations, Chris Fagan told hawthornfc.com.au
“That’s exciting for us because he’s worked really hard over the pre-season, is looking big and strong and we’re looking forward to having him available for selection.”
Fellow knee victim Matt Suckling is all but certain to play against the Lions on Saturday evening, after completing a strong pre-season that included three practice matches.
“Matt Suckling has really grown in confidence over the last three or four weeks with the games that he’s played and I think he’s really looking forward to it,” Fagan said of his return to footy.
“He’s a player we really missed and we’re looking forward to having him back in our team.”
Fagan revealed luckless midfielder Alex Woodward is a chance to make his debut for the Club after overcoming two knee reconstructions.
Popular utility Matt Spangher will be among those unavailable for selection in Round 1, instead he’ll make his first appearance for the season in a Box Hill practice match on Friday.
Fagan revealed the former Swan has battled a calf injury over the pre-season.
“Matt had a bit of a setback with a calf injury about five or six weeks ago and it has been a bit slow to heal up,” he said.
“He played in our match practice session last Friday at training and Box Hill have another hit out on Friday night, so he’ll play in that.
“He’ll be available for Box Hill Round 1 or the AFL Round 2.”
The Hawks will also be without premiership stars Brad Sewell and Ben Stratton through injury and Brian Lake and Cyril Rioli with suspension.
But, after an impressive NAB Challenge series in which the Club blooded a number of youngsters, Fagan says the Hawks are ready and raring to go ahead of the season opener.
“We’ve had a lot of guys get good game time in during the NAB Challenge series,” he said.
“We’re in good shape. We’re very much looking forward to it and have a good, healthy list to choose from.”
View the Club's injury list here.
