Dear members,

On Saturday I had the privilege of attending Graham Arthur’s funeral on behalf of our football club. It was a fitting send-off for a man of exceptional character. Graham was farewelled surrounded by his loving family, friends and many Hawthorn people both past and present.

Football clubs are special places, steeped in history and shaped by the contribution of all those who have been a part of it, from players, to coaches, administrators and members. While we are saddened to farewell Graham, his contribution is deeply woven into our club and continues to shape our club today. Graham’s wife Mary and his extended family will always remain a part of the brown and gold family.

As you would no doubt be aware, over the weekend we announced that our Chief of Football, Graham Wright, will depart the club after 14 years of service. Over this time Graham has played a key role in our recruiting and list management strategy and in 2018 he took on the role of head of football. Graham has exceptional experience in and knowledge of the game and has been a part of much success at Hawthorn. The time is right for Graham to seek a new challenge and while we are disappointed to lose a leader of his character, we understand his decision. To return home to the club where he played and won a premiership is no doubt a special moment for Graham and he goes with our best wishes and sincere thanks for his contribution to the Hawks. 

We now cast our attention to finding a new head of football. We have already commenced this process with our panel meeting today. Hawthorn prides itself on the calibre of its people and this panel, headed up by Football Director Richie Vandenberg, will look both internally and externally to ensure it finds the very best candidate for the role.

The club continues to work with the AFL in relation to the allegations made against Jonathon Patton and will provide a further update when appropriate. Jonathon’s welfare remains a priority and we continue to provide him with the support he requires.

It is now only a month until our first practice match against Collingwood in Morwell. We have strong ties to the Gippsland community through our NGA program and are very much looking forward to reconnecting with the community in Gippsland. I also invite all our Melbourne based members to attend if you are able, it is an afternoon match and a trip to Gippsland offers the opportunity to continue to support small businesses in regional Victoria whose regular visitation has been heavily impacted over the past year.

Go Hawks!