HAWTHORN forward Lance Franklin says he hopes to be a good role model for young indigenous players in the same way older stars such as Adam Goodes were for him.

Speaking to AFL.com.au in the lead-up to the AFL's Indigenous Round, the 26-year-old said he had stepped up his leadership among the indigenous playing community in recent times.

"The generation when I was first here – players such as Andrew McLeod and Adam Goodes – have either retired or are getting a little bit older," Franklin said.

"Those were the guys that we looked up to, so now that we're getting a bit older, there are young kids looking up to us as role models. 

"I've taken that next step in terms of my leadership."

Part of that step was being named captain of the Indigenous All Stars team, which took on Richmond in Alice Springs in February.

Although he didn't eventually play – he had to withdraw due to soreness – the four-time All Australian cherished the opportunity to spend time with the group in the week of the match.

"It was an unbelievable experience," Franklin said. 

"To be named captain of the team and then not to be able to play because I was sore was devastating, but to be up there and part of it, and see the communities up there, go to schools, was something I won't forget. 

"And just hanging out with the boys, getting to know them and learn about their families and where they come from was really good."

I need to kick straighter: Franklin

Franklin's comments came as news emerged that he had apologised to a woman who accused him of drunken, rude behaviour.

The Herald Sun reported that former swimsuit fashion designer and surf brand director Nicky Rowsell posted on Facebook after a confrontation in a Chapel St bar on Saturday in which Franklin allegedly stood over her and yelled in her face.

She described him as "an absolute disgrace of a human", but commended the Hawthorn Football Club for resolving the matter quickly.

The newspaper said Hawthorn confirmed it had received a complaint over Franklin's conduct, and that he had since apologised to the woman for inappropriate behaviour.

Franklin said he intended to continue to put back into communities such as Alice Springs beyond his playing days.

"It's something I'll look at when I finish football," he said. 

"I enjoy being around indigenous people and giving back to the community. 

"Heading up to Alice Springs, you see things people wouldn't have seen in [other parts of] Australia; it's an eye-opener. 

"But the kids up there love their football, so having a kick and a catch with them is something they won't forget, and that we don't forget either. 

"It was a great experience."

The Hawks have seven indigenous players on their list: Jed Anderson, Shaun Burgoyne, Amos Frank, Franklin, Bradley Hill, Cyril Rioli and Derick Wanganeen.

On Monday, Franklin predicted young wingman Hill would be given the honour of handling the coin toss before Sunday's clash with Gold Coast.

Hill was a late withdrawal from last week's win over Greater Western Sydney, but is expected to be fit to face the Suns.