Port Adelaide, great turned media character Kane Cornes, has put forward the dark horse that he thinks could snatch the flag at the 2020 AFL season.
However, with star forward Tom Mitchell back from a dreadful accident and GWS forwards Jon Patton on the move, the Hawks appeared on the way up this season.
Mitchell put in a robust first-round outing since the 2018 Brownlow Medal recipient managed the second-most disposals and many clearances at a 28-point win over the Lions.
The all-round class of the playing team and training team has Cornes feeling optimistic about their chances, going as far as to call them a surprise package for the flag.
Alastair Clarkson has lots of experience as the longest-serving coach now in the AFL.
First appointed to the role as Hawks coach in 2005, he’s guided the team to finals finishes in 10 of 15 seasons, including four premierships.
In actuality, under his watch, Hawthorn hasn’t missed the finals for two straight years since his first stint during 2005 and 2006.
It would take a brave person to doubt Clarkson. Cornes says he believes he’ll have a few tricks up his sleeve to flourish during these uncertain times.