Pre-seasons are a time for players to press their claims for a spot in the Round 1 side.

Having farewelled a number of best 22 players at the end of last year, the Hawks squad, and especially the younger end of it, has been acutely aware of the opportunities available in 2021.

But the time for rehearsals is over – it’s time for roles to be cast.

The biggest question at the match committee table this week will undoubtedly be around debutants – will there be any? Or, perhaps more pertinently, how many will there be?

Jacob Koschitzke seems to head the list as the most likely candidate to throw a brown and gold jumper on for the first time against the Bombers.

Day writes a letter to fans on the eve of the season

Booting six goals in the club’s final hit-out of the summer certainly puts your name in lights, and the defender-cum-forward, who has barely put a foot wrong this pre-season, now appears a strong chance to play his first senior game.

Young small forward Tyler Brockman was another to impress in the side’s win over North Melbourne a fortnight ago, booting three goals.

His forward pressure has also been a feature of the summer campaign, so will that be enough to get the nod from Clarko in the season opener?

Connor Downie is another contender for a debut this weekend.

The powerfully-built wingman has attacked every session with vigour in his opening few months as a Hawk and also figures as another potential call-up.

And then there's Denver Grainger-Barras, the club's prized Pick 6 in last year's national draft.

The athletic defender was left out of the side that faced North in the AAMI Community Series, but all indications suggest his confidence and form at VFL level is taking a promising trajectory.

So, what will it be? One, two, three, four… or none?

Hawks fans will be watching on with interest.

Which Hawks are in your best 22 to take on the Bombers?

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