Over 300 guests descended on Encore St Kilda for the Hawks Season Launch and Hall of Fame induction presented by Mortimer Petroleum on Thursday 21 March 2013. Players and guests enjoyed the intimate cocktail event overlooking the picturesque Port Phillip Bay where the Hawks officially launched their 2013 home and away season while also paying tribute to the newest inductees into the Hawthorn Hall of Fame.
The 2013 playing group were presented with their new adidas Guernsey from Senior Coach Alastair Clarkson before taking in some impressive Hawks history when three new members were inducted into the Hawthorn Hall of Fame.
First to be inducted was Harry E. Miller who was a trainer and physiotherapist with the Hawks for 53 years making him one of the longest serving servants in the Club’s history.
Former player Roy Simmonds was also inducted as he is considered one of the most consistent players to pull on a Guernsey for the Hawks. After his debut in 1950 Simmonds finished in the top three of the Club’s Best & Fairest for seven consecutive years, winning the award in 1956.
Former Coach Jack Hale was originally a premiership player with Carlton however stepped in as Assistant Coach of the Hawthorn Reserves in 1950 and progressed to the senior role 2 years later. Hale is credited for putting the fight and spirit into in the Hawks that saw them rise from last in 1952 to their first finals appearance in 1957, laying the foundations for the Clubs first premiership in 1961.
The highlight for the evening was witnessing one of Hawthorn’s most outstanding leaders in David Parkin be elevated to Legend status. Parkin was inducted by fellow Legend John Kennedy Snr with whom Parkin played under and later coached under. Parkin and Kennedy’s mutual respect for one another was evident and clearly this was a very proud moment for them both.
Parkin now joins the ilk of John Kennedy Senior, Graham Arthur, Leigh Matthews, Michael Tuck and Peter Hudson as the sixth Legend of the Hawthorn Football Club.
View full bios of all three Hall of Fame inductees and read an exclusive interview with David Parkin who says the Hawks will always be his home.
The Hawthorn Football Club now looks forward to another big season in 2013.
