Hawthorn forward Jack Ginnivan is a man not afraid to share his opinions and did so again on Thursday when discussing the recruiting hopes of 19th AFL team Tasmania.
Ever since the Devils were announced as the next club to enter the league, there have been concerns about how the quiet and remote nature of Tasmania, and in particular Hobart, will be able to attract young guns from around the county.
During an interview on SEN Breakfast, Ginnivan was forthright in his belief that he struggled to see how the Devils would land marquee players.
"Look if (Tasmania) offers me $2 million I probably wouldn't say no," Ginnivan laughed.
"To be honest, I don't think I could live in Tassie. My lifestyle in Melbourne is too elite to go down to Tassie. I just don't think I would be happy down there.
"I think (recruiting) will be challenging for Tassie.
"Obviously, the lifestyle is amazing in Gold Coast and in Melbourne from what I have experienced. I know I've got a few mates up in Goldy and everyone loves being around a bit of atmosphere.
"I think it will be a challenge for Tassie to bring in young talent away from these places where you have lived for 20 years. It is going to be a tough challenge for them, but if someone can do it our man (Ken Hinkley) can."
Thinks he's on our target list and thinks he's worth $2 million 😭 https://t.co/gfEn1l4Kkf
— Tasmania Football Club (@FC_Tasmania) October 22, 2026
The fighting words from Ginnivan may help trigger the AFL's next great rivalry given Tasmania senior coach Hinkley's previous tussles with the Hawks forward.
Prior to a 2024 Semi-Final between Port Adelaide (Hinkley's old team) and Hawthorn, Ginnivan made a comment through social media disregarding the Power.
After Port Adelaide won the match, Hinkley performed an aeroplane gesture as a goodbye to Ginnivan, which landed the coach - incredibly - a $20,000 fine.
Hawthorn has a long history with Tasmania, having hosted matches in the Apple Isle since 2001. However, that relationship will end when the Devils enter the league in 2028.
Hawks co-captain James Sicily caused a stir in 2023 after he said he struggled to see how Tasmania could entice young players to move to the state. The club is sponsored by Tasmania and he was forced to apologise.
Ginnivan spoke of the Devils after being questioned about whether they had sought him as a potential signing. The 23-year-old's contract runs out at the end of the 2027 season.
However, the half forward said he hopes his future lies at his second club.
"I was talking to Mum and Dad about it. When you think about it too much, it becomes too much. You just let these things play out I think," he said.
"Hopefully, Hawks still have enough money after the last few years. We have got (Will Day) out of contract as well so hopefully he doesn't sign for ($1.5 million) and have a monster year.
"Nah, I have been loving the Hawks and I feel like we are in a great position with our list. I love the coaches, obviously Sam, but my forward line coach is the best coach I have ever had Adrian Hickmott.
"I'm keen to stay a Hawk for a long time. Hopefully, we start the season off well and go from there."
Ginnivan played 42 games, kicked 58 goals and won a premiership for Collingwood across 2021-23. He then moved to Hawthorn and has played 72 games and kicked 77 goals since.
