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A TEXT message from Luke Beveridge made Western Bulldogs’ recruit Matt Suckling realise Whitten Oval was the best place to continue his AFL career.
The 27-year-old, who the Dogs signed as an unrestricted free agent, was paraded in front of the media on Monday afternoon.
The AFL advised on Monday evening that, based on Suckling's age and the terms of his contract at the Bulldogs, Hawthorn was eligible to receive an end-of-second-round compensation pick (currently No.39).
Suckling revealed a strong friendship with Beveridge played a major part in his decision to leave Hawthorn after 102 games and two premierships.
"(On) Saturday morning I woke up and had a nice text from 'Bevo' and that definitely ticked all the boxes," Suckling said.
"He just said he really wants me to play under him, he knew I wanted to play under him, so it's a perfect fit.
"I think we have similar personalities, similar values and we see the game the same way."
With speculation linking him to the Brisbane Lions throughout 2015, Suckling conceded he often wondered if this season would be his last with the Hawks.
"If I read the papers all year, I probably would have believed I was definitely going (to the Lions)," Sucking said.
"I've spent a lot of time there and it's somewhere I enjoyed visiting. It was definitely of interest, but I'm very happy to be here."
Suckling conceded he could have trouble breaking into the Dogs' settled backline and instead his elite kicking skills could be employed in a more attacking role.
He said he was also looking forward to joining forces with teen sensation Marcus Bontempelli.
"The (Dogs) have got a really strong back six, so if I can fit in on the wing or half-forward … but I won't be sub which will be nice," Suckling joked after being Hawthorn's substitute in the Grand Final against West Coast.
"I like the (Bulldogs') excitement factor, the run and carry, switching and long kicking.
"I love the 'Bont' as well."
