PRE-SEASON training has taken a different shape at Hawthorn this year, with the players sitting down to learn about the history of South Africa before arriving in the country for a 12-day training camp.

The Hawks left for South Africa on Sunday morning, entering a country in mourning following the death of Nelson Mandela.

 

He's a figure the players are very familiar with, after the club held an education session about South Africa, and how he shaped the country.

"We have done a bit of history as a group," Burgoyne told AFL.com.au.

 

"We also went and watched the movie 'Mandela' so that gives us a bit of an insight as well into what's happened over there. 

 

"Once we get there and experience it and be a part of their country, it's going to be a fascinating journey."

 

The players will spend the first week of the camp at the Royal Bafokeng Sports Campus, about an hour and a half out of Johannesburg.

 

The rest of the camp will be held at Stellenbosch, near Cape Town.

 

"Just getting over there and just experiencing another country, another culture, learning a bit while we're there (will be exciting)," Burgoyne said.

 

"We get to travel around. I think we've got a safari, so we'll see some animals, some big cats. It's going to be a good, exciting trip, but I think more the culture aspect. I'll be looking forward to coming back with a greater appreciation of what the country has gone through.

 

Burgoyne had surgery on his ankle in the off-season, and hasn't taken part in full training as yet.

 

"I just had an ankle trim-up just to remove some scar tissue, but it's nothing too serious and I'm back running now and I'm looking forward to the pre-season," Burgoyne said.

"I will just be monitored, easing my way back into it. We've had a good break and so we've come back and trained hard. You do the rehab required and that's what I'm doing now, so I should be ready to go for the start of the season."

As well as training, Burgoyne says the trip will be important in terms of bonding with the new players at the club, including draft choice Dayle Garlett.

The Hawks selected Garlett at No.38 at the AFL Draft in November after the one-time WA under-18 star was overlooked in 2012, following concerns about his lifestyle away from football.

"I'll definitely try to help out Dayle," Burgoyne said. 

"With all the draftees you want them to succeed, so if I can help out him in any way or the other draftees - you know, just giving them a few tips and pointers here and there how to live your life and how to prepare best for training or a game, I'll be doing that."