HAWTHORN continues its list build in preparation for its first AFLW season, committing to VFLW player Sophie Locke. 

Playing with Port Melbourne this season, Locke is a defender-turned-forward who brings a physicality and strength around the contest. Locke is averaging 16.7 disposals and 5.5 tackles across her six games so far this season. 

"Sophie brings X-factor and excitement to our forward line. Her kicking, marking and goal sense make her a player that doesn’t need a lot of the ball to have a big impact on the game," Hawthorn AFLW list manager Mitchell Cashion told the club website. 

"We’ve watched Sophie closely this year after being a member of the VFLW Team of the Year in 2021. Despite a challenging start to the season from a team perspective, she’s been able to be a player who impacts the scoreboard and consistently creates scoring opportunities." 

Before joining Port Melbourne in the VFLW, Locke spent time through the AFLW talent pathways, playing with both the Murray Bushrangers and Vic Country. 

Locke joins Bridget Deed and Zeo Barbakos is the first signings at Hawthorn.