THOUGH disappointed at missing out, Hawthorn captain Sam Mitchell says that 2008 All-Australian guernseys for Luke Hodge and Lance Franklin reflects the balance of his side in a season of just five losses.

Finishing second at the end of the home and away rounds, the Hawks' honours were in contrast to ladder-leading Geelong – who had seven players included.

However, Mitchell insisted on looking at the positives.

"It’s great that we can get two guys in, but in a sense it’s almost a pat on the back that we can go 17 and five for the season and 18 and five if you include our final and we’ve done it without, what most would call, All-Australian years from players," Mitchell said.

"So if we have a few of our guys playing better and maybe even becoming All-Australians [in the future] it will make us even better as a club."

Mitchell is pleased his teammates are just happy to play their role in the quest for the club's first premiership since 1991.

"It makes Geelong look a bit individual, but obviously they’re not because they could have 15 All-Australians.

"Here everyone just plays their role, no-one has to do anything special, everyone just does their little bit and we’ve been a successful side because of that."

Mitchell was short-listed for selection, but missed out for the second year running – and quipped he was "used to that feeling.

"You feel good being in the 40 and then a little bit disappointed to not be in the 22.

"That’s two years in a row so maybe next year."