In his third year at the Club, Duryea impressed the Hawks through good form at VFL level for its affiliate, Box Hill.
A small forward, Duryea won Box Hill’s Best Player in Finals award at its best and fairest night in early October, reward for his excellent form in its two finals matches in season 2012.
General Manager - Football Operations, Mark Evans says Duryea has “really taken a step up”.
“He was very impressive at VFL level in the back half of the season,” he said.
“He’s really taken a step up. The challenge for him next year is to try and get his start in the AFL and progress it even further than he had this year.”
Duryea was close to senior selection for the Hawks in season 2012, and was selected to train with the Hawks during its finals campaign, including during Grand Final preparations.
Evans says the 21 year old is on the cusp of AFL selection.
“He was emergency a few times so he’s right on the cusp of AFL selection and just needs to take his football career to the next level,” he said.
When he does break into the side, Hawthorn fans can expect to see the number 41 across half back or up forward, at the feet of dynamic Hawks’ forwards Lance Franklin and Jarryd Roughead.
“He’s more likely to play either a small, rebounding defender type or as a small forward. Those are probably the areas where he could possibly see an opening initially in the team,” Evans said.
“He should have a pretty strong showing across the summer and maybe a game or two in the NAB Cup to put his name forward at the start of the year.”
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