Veteran Hawthorn big man Ben McEvoy will captain the side this season, replacing the retired Ben Stratton as the 37th captain in the club's rich history.<\/p>\n
After what was described as a "robust" internal process, McEvoy was selected as the skipper, with star midfielder Jaeger O'Meara to be his deputy as the vice-captain.<\/p>\n
Young gun James Worpel is a new addition to the club's leadership group, which is rounded out by Liam Shiels, Jack Gunston and 2018 Brownlow Medallist Tom Mitchell.<\/p>\n
After joining Hawthorn via the trade period at the end of the 2013 season, McEvoy has played in 131 games for the club, including a key role in the 2014 and 2015 premiership teams.<\/p>\n
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"To be voted in by my teammates and receive the support of the club is an honour," McEvoy told reporters on Friday after being named captain.<\/p>\n
"My wife Nicky, and kids Angus, Moira and Clancy have all been embraced by Hawthorn and I'm excited to take on this challenge with my family by my side.<\/p>\n
"This club has given me a lot over the years, and I see this as an amazing opportunity to give back and play my role in ensuring we continue to make the Hawthorn family proud.<\/p>\n
"The entire playing group is intent on making amends for our disappointing 2020 campaign and this has been reflected in the energy and intensity on the training track."<\/p>\n
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"We've got a fantastic mix of youth and experience within our ranks and this leadership group is reflective of that," Hawks CEO Justin Reeves said in a club statement.<\/p>\n
"Ben is one of those people who is universally admired both inside and outside Hawthorn's walls. He's a salt of the earth, family man with strong values and we know he'll set a fantastic example leading from the front.<\/p>\n
"Ben is much loved by all at the club, including our members, and exemplifies what it is to be a Hawthorn person.<\/p>\n
"Everyone at the club is proud to have Ben McEvoy as our leader."<\/p>\n