President Jeff Kennett and the Board of Hawthorn Football Club are proud to announce that dual premiership ruckman Ben McEvoy is set to become the 37th appointed captain of the club.
A highly respected clubman and teammate, McEvoy is known for his courage, selflessness and natural leadership qualities.
Following a robust internal process facilitated by Leading Teams, the Hawks have opted for a one captain, one vice-captain model, with McEvoy to be supported by Vice Captain Jaeger O’Meara who continues in the position for the second consecutive season.
Exciting young midfielder James Worpel is the sole new addition to the group, with the fourth-year Hawk earning his inclusion having cemented his place in the senior side over the past few years.
Experienced campaigners Liam Shiels, Jack Gunston and Tom Mitchell round out the six-man leadership group.
CEO Justin Reeves says the club is confident that the extensive process the club has gone through has identified the right group to lead the Hawks forward.
“We’ve got a fantastic mix of youth and experience within our ranks and this leadership group is reflective of that,” Reeves said.
“Ben is one of those people who is universally admired both inside and outside Hawthorn’s walls. He’s a salt of the earth, family man with strong values and we know he’ll set a fantastic example leading from the front.
“Ben is much loved by all at the club, including our members, and exemplifies what it is to be a Hawthorn person.
“Everyone at the club is proud to have Ben McEvoy as our leader.
“James Worpel’s inclusion in the group is a testament to his natural leadership qualities and rapid development over his first three seasons. The attributes he has shown so far make it clear that he is ready to take the step into our leadership group.
“We know these six men will drive the standards for their teammates with great leadership and discipline and we’re looking forward to watching them propel the Hawks forward in 2021.”
McEvoy says he is elated at the prospect of captaining the club at which he has played 131 games and won two premierships.
“To be voted in by my teammates and receive the support of the club is an honour,” McEvoy said.
“My wife Nicky, and kids Angus, Moira and Clancy have all been embraced by Hawthorn and I’m excited to take on this challenge with my family by my side.
“This club has given me a lot over the years and I see this as an amazing opportunity to give back and play my role in ensuring we continue to make the Hawthorn family proud.
“I’m lucky to be surrounded by a strong leadership group, each equally committed to putting in the hard work required to get Hawthorn back up the ladder.
“The entire playing group is intent on making amends for our disappointing 2020 campaign and this has been reflected in the energy and intensity on the training track.
“We can’t wait to get stuck into games and translate our efforts into on-field success.”
McEvoy joined the Hawks from St Kilda during the 2013 trade period.
His first two seasons in the brown and gold culminated in the 2014 and 2015 premierships.
The 200cm ruckman has now chalked up 222 AFL games across 13 seasons. He has been a member of the Hawks’ leadership group for the past two years.
Hawthorn will kick off its 2021 campaign under Marvel Stadium lights against traditional rivals Essendon on Saturday 20 March, with club members expected to finally be able to return to stadiums in Victoria to watch live football.
“We’re so excited by the thought of playing in front of our Hawthorn family again in 2021,” McEvoy said.
“Their absence left a gaping hole in the 2020 season and their presence this year will be an incredible motivator for our group.
“We’re hoping for a crowd of 50,000 at our first home game against Richmond at the MCG in Round 2. Finally returning to a sea of brown and gold when we run out onto the hallowed turf is going to be a really special moment.”
