Premiership Hawthorn forward Jack Gunston has spoken on his move back to the club and his excitement for the 2024 season for his second stint in the brown and gold.
Gunston played 255 for the Hawks before leaving to move up north to the Brisbane Lions for the 2023 season. He managed to play 17 games for the Lions as he struggled with injury and form, and did not play in the Lions' losing grand final.
The veteran forward spoke on how keen he was to be back at the Hawks and how eager he is to get out there with both new and former players.
"It was great walking in and seeing the boys," said Gunston.
"I've worked with a few of these guys before, so it will be nice to see how far they've progressed, I saw that on the field this year.
"A lot of them have since taken the next step and have been playing some good, consistent footy. I'm happy to be here and help, but I'm also looking forward to getting out there and performing and being there alongside them.
"There are still a lot new faces that I haven't met before, so it will be good to work with them and get to know them too."
Gunston said he has constantly kept up-to-date with the Hawks and watched a number of their matches last year.
"Having played here so long, I could not have watched the games last season," Gunston said.
"The group was really competitive, they played a lot of good footy and a great brand of football.
"That's something that Sam Mitchell has implemented for two years, an attacking, strong brand and that's something I'm looking forward to getting involved in again."
Gunston spoke on the exciting forward line the Hawks have and to be back playing with his good mate Luke Breust, as well as joining his teammates for pre-season training over the coming months.
"[It's] an exciting forward line, I'm looking forward to working with them," he said.
"I'm keen to get back involved with the Hawks brand of footy. Happy to be here and looking forward to getting out there with the boys again."
Gunston will begin his 15th pre-season later this month when senior players make their return to pre-season training on Monday, November 27.