Hawthorn fans will get a glimpse of the future when the club kicks off its 2021 season against Essendon on Saturday night.

The Hawks have named a side full of youthful exuberance for the Round 1 clash, headlined by the trio of debutants in Jacob Koschitzke, Tyler Brockman and Connor Downie.

Named amongst the emergencies, Downie is set to be the club’s medical substitute against the Bombers.

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Head of Football Rob McCartney said an exciting weekend awaits the Hawks as the club moves into a new generation.

“There is a great feeling of anticipation around the club ahead of Saturday night,” McCartney said.

“We’ve put in a power of work this pre-season and I think the group is energised and ready to put practice into performance.

“The side we’ve named is full of a number of youngsters who we think are more than ready for their opportunities, especially our three debutants in Jacob, Tyler and Connor.

“The introduction of the medical substitute this week obviously presents a unique situation, but Connor is excited to embrace the experience of his first senior game after a highly impressive first pre-season.

“Including Connor, this side boasts nine players 22 years old or younger so that’s a really exciting thing for our supporters to watch on and see the future of our footy club.”

Essendon will host Hawthorn at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night at 7.25pm AEDT.

ROUND 1 TEAM
Essendon v Hawthorn
Saturday 20 March, 7.25pm AEDT
Marvel Stadium