Hawthorn will continue to play games at the University of Tasmania Stadium (UTAS Stadium) in 2023 after the club announced a new deal with Tasmania on Friday.

The Hawks and the Tasmanian Government agreed on a one-year contract extension to their deal that sees them play four matches at UTAS Stadium across the 2023 home and away season.

The club has had an ongoing relationship with Tasmania and Launceston for 22 years now, and the island state is home to many loyal Hawthorn supporters and members.

UTAS Stadium has hosted many notable games for the brown and gold, such as ANZAC Day, Sir Doug Nicholls Round and Tasmania's Emergency Services Match.

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Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves was very pleased with the extension of the partnership with the Tasmania Government, which has been in place since 2001.

“We are delighted to be extending our time in Tasmania, while at the same time also continuing our support for their pursuit of their own AFL team".

“Having first played in Tasmania in 2001, this is a tremendous outcome for our passionate Tasmanian members".

“The relationship Hawthorn has with the Tasmanian Government is incredibly strong, and to extend our partnership for another season is a testament to those ties. The club will have discussions in the new year to work towards a further extension of the partnership". 

“We can't wait to return to UTAS Stadium, as well as continuing our established community and school work across the state," Reeves said.

This announcement comes as the AFL and Tasmania announce a major step forward in the creation of an AFL club based in the Apple Isle.