Players, coaches, sponsors and fellow members of the Hawks inner sanctum enjoyed a fabulous cocktail function including boutique Tasmanian Ninth Island wines while watching the sun set over St Kilda beach.
Gusts began the evening socialising by the pool, which was occupied by synchronised swimmers, before flowing out onto the deck and enjoying the sounds of jazz band Sugar Blue Trio. Guests were then welcomed by MC Craig Willis and Hawthorn President Andrew Newbold, who expressed his passion for the Club and his strong opinion that “clubs, not teams, win premierships”.
Senior Coach Alastair Clarkson reflected on the beginnings of his tenure at the Hawks, speaking about how far the Club has come in his eight years as coach, crediting the hard work of the players, leaders and staff. Clarkson said the group had always aimed for a period of sustained success that they anticipated would begin around 2011 - the 2008 premiership came as a pleasant, premature surprise - and he’s hoping the next couple of years will be fruitful ones. He finished by telling the crowd that in 2008 the team had belief in itself and in 2012 the players have the same confidence in each other and the coaching group.
The 2012 playing group were presented with their guernseys by Assistant Coaches Adam Simpson, Leon Cameron, Brendon Bolton and Luke Beveridge along with Clarkson and Managing Director of Mortimer Petroleum and event sponsor David Mortimer.
Before addressing the guests, Captain Luke Hodge presented David Mortimer with is very own number 1 team signed guernsey on behalf of the Club to show its appreciation to Mortimer Petroleum.
At the conclusion of the guernsey presentation, Craig Willis introduced the surprise headline entertainment act guests had been waiting for. With an excitement of cheer and huge round of applause, the crowd was introduced to Australian music icon Daryl Braithwaite.
Daryl performed One Summer, As the Days Go By, Rise Up and the most famous of all - The Horses. During his extended and intimate version of The Horses Daryl was joined on stage by Hawks defender Brent Guerra who belted out a great tune, surprising many of the guests who didn’t realise he could sing so well! A perfect way to conclude a thoroughly enjoyable evening.
The new style Season Launch was a huge success and we look forward to that success flowing throughout the 2012 season.
