It is safe to say that Josh Battle's move from St Kilda to Hawthorn has already reaped rewards.
Battle was one of the biggest names in the AFL to switch clubs 12 months ago, opting to exercise his free agency rights to join the brown and gold.
The Saints were given Pick 10 as compensation, which yielded Alix Tauru.
But for the Hawks, it gifted them an All-Australian defender in-waiting.
Last week, Battle was presented with a maiden All-Australian blazer in recognition of his efforts throughout 2025.
Defender
Disposals
Marks
Rebound50s
Albeit a surprise to most, including the 26-year-old, it was just desserts for a job well done.
"It's probably something I wasn't expecting going into the year," Battle said on Monday.
"It's my first year at the club, and I wanted to earn the respect of the players, coaches and staff. But definitely rapt (with the selection).
"I wouldn't say it was one of the goals on my list. You always look from afar and think it'd be nice to get there. But something I think I'll be very proud of when I look back on my career."
Battle's "massive" decision to leave the Saints for the Hawks wasn't an easy one. However, for the Victorian, his measured approach has yielded benefits for both himself and the club.
"I love where I am now," Battle said.
"I have learnt a lot about myself, about things in football. I'm definitely very happy with my decision last year, and looking forward to the finals.
"It was a massive decision. I definitely didn't take it lightly, but I took a lot of time to reflect, and thought that Hawthorn was the best place for me."
Battle has played 146 games, but only two finals games since being drafted in 2016.
On Saturday, he'll have played a third in an elimination final against GWS at Engie Stadium.
The Hawks and the Giants have produced some close encounters over the past few years. The last seven clashes have been decided by 22 points or less.
Hawthorn also hasn't won a game at the Sydney Showgrounds, and they'll need to stop the Giants' inspirational captain, Toby Greene, if they have any chance to cause an upset.
Battle flagged that utility Blake Hardwick is the ideal match-up for the Giants skipper, which could play a significant role in the outcome of the contest.
"We know the Giants have some firepower up forward," Battle said.
"Toby Greene is a star. They're very good up forward, and we know that.
"I think we'll try to stick to what we do and our systems, and hopefully that can help us.
"I think 'Dimma' Hardwick comes to mind for me. He's a great match-up for Toby. He's been outstanding this year and normally locks down on small forwards. If I were the coach, I'd play Dimma on him."
Hawthorn is also expecting dashing defender Josh Weddle to be available for selection after successfully returning through the VFL over the weekend.
Weddle sustained a stress fracture in his back and played on limited minutes in the reserves, but showcased his athleticism and dare, which has intrigued Sam Mitchell and his coaching staff.
