Letter from Hawthorn president Andy Gowers

Dear Hawthorn supporters,

I’m delighted to update you on the exciting progress at the Kennedy Community Centre. Since our Turning of the First Sod Ceremony just over two months ago, construction has been progressing rapidly, and there’s been a flurry of activity at our future home.

Significant piling work, now about 70% complete, has been undertaken to lay the foundation for the Harris Elite Training and Administration Facility (ETAF) and the Community & AFLW Pavilion. At the Harris ETAF, we’re nearing completion of the last section of piles at the western end, crucial for supporting the club’s future aquatics zone. Additionally, we’ve installed drainage and irrigation systems for the oval, where our men’s and women’s teams will train in the years to come. I’m thrilled to announce that last Saturday, we poured the first concrete slab at the Harris ETAF, where the future 100-seat indoor theater will be located. Furthermore, we’re witnessing the erection of the project’s very first vertical elements, with columns being formed and poured. The progress, as depicted in the included images, is truly exhilarating, as the foundations for our future home are being laid.

As you may know, the Kennedy Community Centre holds immense significance for our football club, promising to be a game-changer. It will solidify our position as a premier destination club in the AFL for both men’s and women’s players, while providing a long-term home for the entire Hawthorn family. We’re eager to emphasize the importance of our KCC fundraising campaign in ensuring the successful delivery of our new home and securing our future prosperity. We’re confident in our ability to rally the entire brown and gold faithful to support this critical capital raising campaign.

A crucial aspect of our fundraising strategy is the creation of our special Kennedy Community Guernsey, launched a few weeks ago. This initiative offers a unique opportunity for individuals to make tax-deductible donations and have their names engraved on the iconic brown and gold guernsey. Starting at $400, every donation will immortalize your name on the guernsey worn by our players when they take the field against Carlton in Round 22 at the MCG. Whether it’s your name, a loved one’s, or in memory of someone special, the Kennedy Community Centre Guernsey will be a symbol of unity for our community. There are still spots available, but act fast, as this opportunity closes on Sunday, April 28. Click here https://foundation.hawthornfc.com.au/fabric-of-our-club to secure yours now.

Every donation, regardless of size, plays a crucial role in ensuring our club thrives in its new home. If you’re interested in learning more about how you can contribute or have any questions about getting involved, please reach out to Rodney ‘Rocket’ Eade at rodneye@hawthornfc.com.au to schedule a meeting. With tax time approaching, there’s no better opportunity to donate!

We’re thrilled about the progress being made at the Kennedy Community Centre and hope you share our excitement as it comes closer to fruition each day.

Best regards,

Andy Gowers

President, Hawthorn Football Club