Hawthorn’s Executive General Manager of Football, Rob McCartney, expressed enthusiasm about the team’s current position.

Hawthorn’s Executive General Manager of Football, Rob McCartney, expressed his enthusiasm about the team’s current status and its future trajectory.

This Saturday, the Hawks will go up against Collingwood in a crucial 12th versus 13th match that could influence the season for both teams.

Despite starting the season with a 0-5 record, McCartney refrained from expressing surprise at being in the finals contention but acknowledged his pride in the players’ development.

“We were reasonably optimistic about the progress we observed during the 2023 season,” McCartney shared with SEN’s Sportsday.

“We understand that some of our decisions in recent years required time to rebuild our list.

“We’re thrilled to be in our current position, eagerly anticipating the Collingwood match at the MCG on Saturday, which is significant.

“We’re delighted to be where we are right now.”

However, the past few weeks have been marred by Mitch Lewis’ season-ending ACL injury, with the forward scheduled for surgery next week.

McCartney described the injury as a “bitter blow” for both Lewis and the team, praising Lewis’ resilience during his recovery.

“Mitch had worked tirelessly to return after a frustrating 2024,” McCartney stated.

“He played the first three games but faced several minor injuries that kept him out until the Geelong game.

“Being sidelined for 12 months now is challenging for all of us.

“But since the injury diagnosis, Mitch has shown incredible character, focusing on how he can still contribute to the team’s success this season.”

“He’s a young 25-year-old who wasn’t an early pick but has worked hard to reach his current level.

“Although he won’t be playing for a while, he will continue to contribute as a leader.”

Looking ahead, McCartney is optimistic about the future of Hawthorn’s roster.

With several emerging players, the club is also exploring potential additions to its key position stocks to support Lewis upon his return.

“We’ve always known the needs of our list over the past few years,” McCartney said.

“Even with Mitch, if we had the chance to acquire a key forward and defender, we would pursue it.

“This strategy remains unchanged. We still seek a key forward, but not solely due to Mitch’s absence in 2025.”

McCartney also commended the performances of young draftee Calsher Dear and newcomer Mabior Chol.

“Calsher Dear has been a pleasant surprise this season,” he noted.

“Mabior (Chol) has made a significant impact at his third club almost immediately.

“We have some depth, but we’ve always planned to seek another key forward.”

McCartney and the Hawks are now gearing up for an exciting match against the Magpies this Saturday afternoon at the MCG.