Hawthorn has confirmed the return of former assistant coach Brett Ratten in an esteemed director role.
Ratten, who recently publicised his departure from Arden Street where he worked with ex-Hawks mentor Alastair Clarkson, was announced as Hawthorn's new Head of Coaching Performance & Development on Wednesday morning.
The 52-year-old was originally part of the coaching staff that led the Hawks to their three-peat of premiership triumphs in 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Hawthorn General Manager of Football Rob McCartney expressed his excitement at being able to acquire Ratten and his vast coaching experience for the young Hawks.
"We're thrilled to bring someone of Brett's calibre into our program. He will play a key role in mentoring and developing our coaching staff," McCartney said in a club statement on Wednesday morning.
"With his experience, expertise, and immense football IQ, we believe Brett will make an immediate impact both on and off the field.
"On top of his obvious coaching skillset, Brett is a fantastic person with great perspective, who will no doubt have a positive influence on our culture and provide great mentorship for everyone across our program."
Ratten, commenting via Hawthorn's statement, expressed confidence in the Hawks' direction as a club and praised its coaches and staff.
"I am really confident about the direction Hawthorn has taken in developing a young list on the way back to contending for premiership success, it is one of the main reasons why I choose to return to the Hawks," Ratten said on Wednesday.
"There is a great group of coaches and football staff at the club, and I am really keen to get to work in the pre-season and help set the club up for a big 2024."
Ratten, aside from holding an interim role of Kangaroos head coach this year, has also previously coached Carlton (2007-2012) and St Kilda (2019-2022); recording win-loss-draw figures of 94 wins, 103 losses, and one draw as a senior mentor in the AFL.
Hawthorn will welcome back its first to fourth-year players for the start of 2024 pre-season training from Monday, November 13, while the remainder of the list will return on Monday, November 27.