GOOD NEWS: Six Emerging Talent added Hawthorn 2025 squad, this could be good boost for the club

Hawthorn has officially announced their 2025 squad, placing a strong emphasis on youth development as they add six emerging talents to their list.

With the team in a rebuilding phase under the guidance of head coach Sam Mitchell, these young players are set to be integral to the Hawks’ plans moving forward. While the club has suffered a few key injuries, the inclusion of fresh talent signals their commitment to long-term growth and competitiveness in the AFL.

Emerging Talents Added to the Squad

1. Henry Hustwaite (Midfielder)
   A tall midfielder with excellent vision and ball-handling skills, Henry Hustwaite is one of Hawthorn’s most exciting young prospects. Hustwaite has the ability to dominate in contested situations, and his composure under pressure will be valuable in 2025. His addition gives the Hawks another strong presence in the middle, and he’s expected to rotate through the midfield, helping to fill the void left by Jai Newcombe’s injury.
2. Jai Serong (Forward/Utility)
   Versatile and athletic, Jai Serong can play multiple roles across the ground. Whether deployed as a forward or in defense, Serong’s natural ability to read the play and impact contests will be an asset for Hawthorn. With Chad Wingard ruled out for the start of the season, Serong’s versatility makes him a key player to watch in 2025.
3. Bailey Macdonald (Defender)
   A promising young defender, Bailey Macdonald has shown great potential with his intercept marking and ability to shut down opposition forwards. His pace and attacking mindset also allow him to rebound effectively from defense. With James Sicily out due to injury, Macdonald could see increased opportunities in the backline early in the season.
4. Brady Grey (Midfielder)
   Brady Grey is a strong-bodied midfielder who excels at winning contested possessions. His hard-nosed style of play fits perfectly with Hawthorn’s ethos, and he’ll provide crucial depth in the midfield. With James Worpel and Conor Nash leading the charge, Grey’s ability to win the ball in tight situations will complement the Hawks’ game plan.
5. Jack O’Sullivan (Forward)
   Known for his speed and goal sense, Jack O’Sullivan is a small forward with a knack for applying forward pressure. He’ll be expected to contribute goals and provide the kind of hustle that Hawthorn will need in their forward line. O’Sullivan’s inclusion adds depth to the club’s goal-kicking options, particularly with Wingard sidelined.
6. Cooper Stephens (Midfielder)
   Another young midfielder, Cooper Stephens brings a strong work ethic and a high level of endurance to the team. His ability to cover ground and deliver accurate disposals makes him a valuable addition to the squad. Stephens will be looking to push for a regular spot in the midfield rotation in 2025.

Hawthorn’s Depth and 2025 Outlook

With the addition of these six emerging talents, Hawthorn’s 2025 squad is shaping up to be one of development and opportunity. The team’s depth will be tested, especially with injuries to key players like captain James Sicily, Chad Wingard, and Jai Newcombe. However, these emerging players are ready to step up and fill those gaps.

• James Worpel and Conor Nash will continue to lead the midfield, while the likes of Josh Weddle and Connor Macdonald will be pivotal in both defense and attack.
• Mitch Lewis remains a focal point in the forward line, with support from Luke Breust and Fergus Greene.
• Defensively, Sam Frost and Blake Hardwick will be relied upon to hold down the backline, especially in Sicily’s absence.

Conclusion

As Hawthorn looks to the future, the inclusion of these six emerging talents underscores the club’s focus on building a squad for long-term success. While the absence of key players will be felt early on, these young players represent the next generation of Hawks, ready to take on the challenge and help the team grow in 2025 and beyond.

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