AFTER gaining permission to train with Hawthorn this pre-season, former Collingwood ruckman Jonathon Ceglar has won a spot on the Club’s rookie list.

Ceglar joined Hawthorn training in late November, taking part in three sessions where he worked closely with ruck coach, Damian Monkhorst.

Recruiting and List Manager Graham Wright says the 204cm ruckman impressed Monkhorst, and convinced recruiters he was the man to pick at selection 15 in the Rookie Draft.

“He really impressed Damian Monkhorst, he felt that he just hadn’t had a lot of ruck tuition over the last couple of years and felt he could improve really quickly,” Wright told hawthornfc.com.au

“Damian was quite a wrap on him when he was here and training and that was enough for us to put some faith in him and pick him up today.”

Having spent two seasons on Collingwood’s senior list, Ceglar spent the majority of time developing in the VFL.

It is there, however, that he spent most of his time up forward given Collingwood’s ruck options at the level.

When given the opportunity as first ruck, Celgar’s ability to ply his trade was impressive, as was his mobility around the ground.

“When he did play genuine ruck, we thought his ruck work was really good, he was able to get around the ground and compete really well,” Wright said.

“He can also push forward and take marks, he’s a genuine ruckman size at 204cm and turning 22 in February, we felt he has some upside and can potentially fill that role for a few years.”

At just 90kg, Wright admits the Hawks’ new ruckman has work to do in the gym over pre-season.

But his determination and commitment coupled with his talent on the field means anything can be achieved by the new Hawk.

“He was very committed when he was here, he only had the three training runs here and did really well in those,” Wright said.

“He’s a country lad, a good lad and we think he’ll fit in really well. He’s pretty determined to continue his AFL career.

“We wanted to try and get someone in who wasn’t just filling a gap, but someone who has the chance to play AFL footy and we think Jonathon has that.”

Ceglar spent an extra year in the TAC Cup in 2010 before being pre-listed by Gold Coast and on-traded to Collingwood along with Andrew Krakouer for pick 25 in the 2010 draft.