Hawthorn have announced an extension of their partnership with VFL side Box Hill, with the two clubs set to be affiliated until the end of 2026.
The connection between Hawthorn and Box Hill is currently the only remaining original VFL-AFL link, standing as the longest running partnership after commencing their affiliation in 2000 following the end of the VSFL competition.
The new deal will also see the Hawks' VFLW license return to Box Hill, with the club's AFLW side set for inception at the end of next year.
Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves said he was thrilled to have his club's partnership with Box Hill extended for a further five years.
“The club is delighted that this new agreement will see Hawthorn’s esteemed partnership with Box Hill remain until at least 2026,” Reeves said.
“Hawthorn’s alliance with Box Hill has long-fostered an incredible amount of collaboration and mutual admiration which continues to place both clubs in good stead now and into the future.
“We have no doubt the relationship between Hawthorn and Box Hill played a significant part in Hawthorn’s Premiership success since 2008, and it will continue to have a substantial impact over the next five years.”
Hawthorn and Box Hill will structure the Hawks' new Academy Pathways Program, which is set to oversee the club's recruitment of father-son, father-
The club announced last month that Clint Proctor has been assigned as the Hawks' new VFL coach for 2022, with former senior coach and Hawthorn great Sam Mitchell taking over from Alastair Clarkson for the clubs' senior side.
