Dear members and supporters,
On behalf of Hawthorn Football Club I would like to inform you of the status of contract negotiations with Lance Franklin.
The Club has been in discussions with Lance and his manager for a number of months, and has presented Lance with a very strong offer.
Lance has indicated he would like to delay discussion on his contract to the end of the 2013 season.
The Club accepts Lance is within his rights to proceed this way and we will continue to work towards retaining him within the structure of our talented playing list by keeping an open dialogue with Lance and his manager.
Both the Club and its members must be prepared to acknowledge this situation is part of a new football landscape under free agency.
Hawthorn Football Club members and supporters can be assured the Club manages all player contract renegotiations professionally and with the intention of minimising distractions for the Club, players, coaching staff and you – our valued members and supporters.
We can appreciate that Hawthorn members are invested and interested in the Club’s progress with Lance’s contract and you can be guaranteed Hawthorn Football Club’s focus is to retain him.
Yours faithfully
Stuart Fox
CEO
