Hawthorn Hawks extend contract with Tasmanian government until 2025
The Falcons will host at least four games per season at UTAS Stadium through the end of 2025. The latest extension continues a relationship that began in 2001.
Falcons chief executive Justin Reeves said the deal would continue to benefit the club as the club received millions of dollars in government funding through sponsorship to take matches to the island.
The Hawks will play home games in Launceston until at least the end of 2025. Credit: Getty Images
“To continue this partnership with the Tasmanian Government until at least the end of 2025 is fantastic for our loyal 10,000 strong Tasmanian members and supporters and the thousands of Hawthorn members and fans who travel to Launceston from across the country for our games , ” Reeves said.
“Having this commitment provides certainty for the club, while the state continues to provide top AFL content and continues its pursuit of its own AFL team, which we have long said we support.”
Hawks president Andy Gowers said the club would continue to work with the Tasmanian community.
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“As a club we are incredibly proud to extend this partnership and continue to play in front of our passionate Tasmanian members and supporters,” Gowers said.
“Hawthorn’s partnership with Tasmania remains among the longest in the AFL, and we can’t wait to return to Launceston. We greatly value our long-standing relationship with the Tasmanian Government and community and continue to ensure that Hawthorn matches in Tasmania generate significant direct and indirect economic impact on the state, particularly in the transport, tourism and hospitality sectors.”
The Hawks have recently been able to host exhibition matches in Launceston, including Anzac Day, Sir Doug Nicholls round and the state’s emergency services match.
AFL announces practice match schedule
Traditional rivals Carlton and Collingwood will meet in a practice match, while Geelong and Hawthorn will also clash as the AFL confirmed fixtures for unofficial and official practice matches.
The unofficial match simulation sessions begin on February 23, when the Blues host the Magpies at Ikon Park, the Cats host the Falcons at GMHBA Stadium, while the Gold Coast Suns host Essendon.
The Western Bulldogs and Greater Western Sydney will not participate in match simulations. They will instead play intra-club matches during their community camps.
The official round of practice matches begins on March 2, when three games will be held, including the Hawks hosting the Magpies in Launceston.
Travis Auld, the league’s executive general manager clubs and broadcasting, said the pre-season games would help all teams.
“After an incredible 2022, in which we saw two AFLW seasons and one of the best AFL seasons on record, the football industry has taken a well-deserved break. Now, footy returns and momentum is building for the 2023 premiership season,” Auld said.
“Fans will get their first look at new players, new coaches and new captains ahead of a big 2023 season.”
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