Hawthorn’s midfield faces a significant test in 2025, but veteran Jarman Impey is projecting confidence that the club’s emerging talent can successfully navigate the absences of Will Day and the failed pursuit of Essendon’s Zach Merrett. This isn’t simply about filling roster spots; it’s a crucial inflection point for a Hawthorn side aiming to build on recent success and solidify its position as a genuine premiership contender. The Hawks have been aggressive in recent years, adding established players, but now the onus is on internal development – a hallmark of sustained success in the AFL.
- Youth Opportunity: The injuries to Day and departure of Worpel create a clear pathway for young midfielders like Cam Mackenzie, Connor Macdonald, and draftees Jack Dalton and Ollie Greeves.
- Merrett Miss Not Fatal: While the failed attempt to secure Merrett was a setback, Hawthorn appears to be prioritizing internal growth and maintaining list flexibility.
- Culture & Continuity: Impey emphasizes the strong culture at Hawthorn, suggesting the club can retain its core talent even as they attract external interest.
The loss of Will Day to shoulder surgery for the first half of the season is a blow, particularly given his increasing influence as a dynamic, intercepting midfielder. Coupled with James Worpel’s move to Geelong and the inability to land Zach Merrett – a player who would have provided immediate class and leadership – the Hawks’ midfield depth is undeniably thinner than initially hoped. Hawthorn’s recent success has been built on a shrewd recruiting strategy, bringing in players like Tom Barrass, Josh Battle, and Jack Ginnivan to complement their developing core. However, relying solely on external additions isn’t a sustainable model. The AFL landscape is increasingly competitive, and teams need to consistently replenish their ranks from within.
Impey’s comments are significant because they signal a shift in focus. He acknowledges the disappointment of missing Merrett but frames it as a catalyst for opportunity. The Hawks have invested heavily in their development program, and now is the time for those investments to pay dividends. The names he highlights – Mackenzie, Macdonald, Hustwaite, Dalton, and Greeves – represent the next wave of Hawthorn midfielders. Their performance in the coming months will be critical, not just for the team’s on-field success, but also for the long-term health of the club.
The Forward Look
The next six to eight weeks will be a proving ground for Hawthorn’s young midfielders. Their ability to step up and consistently contribute will dictate whether the Hawks can remain competitive while Day recovers. More broadly, the club faces a delicate balancing act. They’ve successfully attracted players through trade and free agency, but now they must demonstrate they can retain their own emerging stars. The reported interest in Josh Weddle from Essendon is a clear indication that Hawthorn’s homegrown talent is attracting attention. Impey’s suggestion that players may need to accept slightly less lucrative deals to remain with the club echoes the sacrifices made by players during Hawthorn’s dynasty years. This willingness to prioritize team success over individual financial gain will be a key indicator of the club’s cultural strength. Furthermore, the opening of Hawthorn’s new Dingley facilities represents a significant investment in the future, providing a state-of-the-art environment for player development and fostering a strong sense of community. The Hawks are clearly building for sustained success, and the coming season will be a crucial test of their long-term vision. The Round 1 clash against Essendon and Zach Merrett will be a fascinating early barometer of how Hawthorn has adapted to the changes in its midfield.
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