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Hawthorn confirms defensive pair, untried youngster’s future

“All three have showed a high level of professionalism during their time in the brown and gold.”

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Hawthorn has confirmed the delisting of defensive duo Denver Grainger-Barras and Ethan Phillips, along with untried youngster Jack O'Sullivan.

As part of their assessment of the list, the Hawks announced that the trio were not offered contracts for 2025.

Grainger-Barras departs the Hawks, having played 28 games since he was drafted in 2020, while Phillips suited up for one match in 2024 after joining the club as a rookie during the Supplemental Selection Period.

Since being drafted with Pick 46 in 2022, O'Sullivan didn't break through for an AFL debut but suited up for 13 VFL matches this year.

Hawthorn National Recruiting and List Manager Mark McKenzie thanked Grainger-Barras, Phillips and O'Sullivan for their time in brown and gold.

“While these are always hard decisions to make at the end of the season, we thank Denver, Ethan and Jack for their contributions to the club,” McKenzie said.

“All three have showed a high level of professionalism during their time in the brown and gold.

“We wish all three of them well for the future.”

The writing appeared on the wall for the former Pick 6, playing 16 games in the VFL and not featuring in the senior side throughout 2024, while Phillips was only seen once.

The inclusion of Josh Battle from St Kilda via free agency and West Coast defender Tom Barrass during the trade period furthered the agenda that the defensive pair may be left without new contracts.

Tim Membrey and Denver Grainger-Barras during the AFL match between Hawthorn and St Kilda in Round 4, 2022 (Photo by Cameron Grimes / Zero Digital Media)

The confirmation follows the social media post Grainger-Barras displayed on his Instagram account.

However, it is understood that Swan District's AFL dream may not be over, with Carlton considering making a play for the soon-to-be delisted free agent.

The Blues are keen to bolster their key defensive stocks, adding assistance to All-Australian Jacob Weitering.

The Victorian powerhouse has already let go of Caleb Marchbank from its list whilst also weighing up the future of Sam Durdin.

West Coast are also considering a play for the local talent amid his delisting.

As for Phillips, it is understood that the Blues also looked his way while St Kilda are keen to add depth in their defensive stocks.

The club will continue assessing further list decisions ahead of the October 31 list lodgement deadline.

The AFL's delisted free agency period opens November 1st and runs to the 8th.

Published by
Aidan Cellini