One of the most pleasing statistics to come from the first round win is that Saturday night’s side boasted 13 players aged 22 or under, equalling half the team.
Youngsters Jordan Lisle, Ben Stratton and Luke Breust got their first taste of the style and speed of AFL level football against the Tigers.
Pacy teenager Breust showed great agility and know-how in the forward line, scoring a nine-point goal, while Jordan Lisle also contributed with a regulation six-pointer.
Recent draftee Ben Stratton impressed in his first game, showcasing the outstanding agility and athleticism he displayed at the WA screening camp for the 2009 AFL Draft. He finished second-best in the agility run and recorded an equal fifth vertical leap score at the camp.
Having been selected at number 13 in the 2009 Rookie Draft, new recruit Wayde Skipper also donned the brown and gold for the first time, slotting in well to the Hawks ruck rotation.
It was assistant midfield coach Adam Simpson’s debut in the box alongside fellow midfield coach Rick Macgowan, who is in his second season at the Club. The Hawks midfield was particularly damaging on Saturday night with Xavier Ellis, Jordan Lewis, Brad Sewell and youngster Liam Shiels in fine form.
The class and flair of Luke Hodge and Captain Sam Mitchell, who finished with 38 touches, would have also impressed coaches and fans alike.
This past week, the players have resumed a training schedule similar to their in-season program, which includes coach and player game reviews, skills, yoga and goal-kicking. The regime should put the team in a good position ahead of next Friday night’s clash against the Western Bulldogs at Etihad Stadium.
