Bateman is one of six Indigenous players at Hawthorn and coach Alastair Clarkson says he will recognise the midfielder’s contribution to the club by letting him lead the side onto the MCG.
“Our club has come a long way in terms of Aboriginal representation, particularly over the last 10 years. They’ve made a significant impact through our footy club, so I think it’s a mark of respect to the whole Aboriginal community, but particularly to Chance and the Aboriginal boys at our club,” Clarkson said.
To further recognise the contribution of Indigenous players at Hawthorn president Jeff Kennett announced on Friday that the Aboriginal flag would be flown permanently atop of the stadium at Waverley Park.
“When you consider the importance of the Indigenous community within Australia and when you consider the way in which the Indigenous community supplies us with so many players, past and present, we thought it was only appropriate that the flag be flown permanently from our home here at Waverley,” Kennett said.
Hawthorn forward Mark Williams had the honour of raising his native flag alongside the Australian flag and two club flags in front of fellow teammates, Hawthorn board members and fans.
Williams approached Kennett at the end of last Friday night’s game against Fremantle and asked whether it would be possible to fly the Aboriginal flag.
Kennett took the request to the rest of the Hawthorn board members on Monday night, where they decided to honour Williams’ request.
“We thought it was absolutely appropriate. It’s an absolute coincidence that this happens to be the AFL’s Indigenous round this weekend,” Kennett said.
“That’s a flag that is as much about Australia’s history as it is about Australia’s future.
“The board thanks and recognises our Indigenous players. It’s a small step but a very important step in the unfolding history of Hawthorn.”
Hawthorn fans will also be given the chance to celebrate Indigenous round with the annual ‘Walk to the ’G’ starting at Federation Square before Sunday’s game.
