Despite managing just six matches in 2012, and eight in 2011, Cheney has won the praise of the Hawks’ coaching staff with his defence-first mindset and consistency in his performances this season.
The former Demon has managed just 14 matches with the Hawks since crossing to the brown and gold, but is seen as a player who can really make an impact at senior level in 2013.
He was an emergency for the Preliminary and Grand finals, and was continually on the cusp of senior selection throughout the 2012 season.
Hawthorn General Manager - Football Operations, Mark Evans says the 23 year old was unlucky not to feature more frequently for the Hawks in 2012.
“He’s played 14 games across the two-year period but he has been in the squad of 25 at least another 15 times,” he said.
“He’s right on the cusp of being selected in the senior team.
“When he has played in the Hawthorn team he has acquitted himself really well and then sometimes been unlucky that he’s not in the Hawthorn team.
“He’s right there and he knows it.”
He played three consecutive matches for the Hawks from rounds 15 to 17, before being omitted for the Round 18 win over Essendon.
But Evans believes his attitude towards his game and desire to succeed with hold him in good stead for 2013 and beyond.
“He’s very reliable and diligent in what he does and he’s terrific around the place,” he said.
“I’m sure he’s going to have that extra impetus to get himself up.
“He was pretty close to getting selected in a finals team so that’s a positive.”
RELATED
Five youngsters sign Hallahan stays a Hawk Duryea rewarded Litherland signs Langford signs on
