Hawthorn has extended its long-running partnership with the Tasmanian Government by a further two years, with the deal to see the Hawks frequent UTAS Stadium four times a year until the end of the 2027 season, the season preceding Tasmania's very own introduction to the league.
Hawthorn have experienced many memorable moments across the near-25-year partnership, including Buddy Franklin's 13-goal haul in 2012, Will Langford's miraculous late leveller in 2017, a countless number of one-goal thrillers and even a stunning 124-point victory over North Melbourne as recently as last year.
The Launceston venue has also played host to many special games on the Hawthorn calendar, including last year's Blue Ribbon Cup, Sir Doug Nicholls Round, ANZAC Day, and the state's beloved Emergency Services Match.
Hawthorn President Andy Gowers expressed his delight over the continuing arrangement.
โLaunceston has long been a happy hunting ground for the Hawks, and we're thrilled about hosting games there until the end of 2027," he said in a club statement.ย
"With the Tasmanian Devils due to make their debut in the competition in 2028, this extension is the perfect fit for the footy-loving public in Launceston."
Hawthorn CEO Ash Klein echoed Gowers' pride in the deal by outlining the positive impact the partnership has on the local community.
โSince playing our first game in Tasmania almost 25 years ago, Hawthorn is proud to be bringing AFL games to the state, whilst positively impacting locals through meaningful community programs," he said.ย
"There are also many economic benefits that the matches bring to the local community."
Hawks head coach Sam Mitchell was however far more bullish over what the arrangement means for his side's on-field performance.
"We've played four games there per year for such a long time and I think we have such a competitive advantage there," he said.
"On-field as the current head coach and over my playing time, we probably averaged an extra win per season because of the four games.
"We love going there, we love spending time there, but we also love winning there and we seem to have been able to do that on a pretty consistent basis."
Hawthorn have an impressive record when travelling south, winning 61 out of a possible 82 games in Tasmania since 2001. This 75% win rate is among the most successful of any team at any venue league-wide.
Interestingly, despite maintaining a remarkable success rate in the state, the Sydney Swans currently lay claim to the Tassie crown, winning 83% of their games (5-1) in Australia's southernmost state.
