Having been dubbed ‘‘Hodgey’’ by his high school mates for his admiration for Hawthorn’s number 15, Waller now wears Luke Hodge’s number on his own supporters jersey.

Waller will be in attendance at today’s game against the Western Bulldogs. He said he did not expect a potentially damp ground to impact on Hawthorn’s chances.

‘‘[It will be] a pretty even game I think, the Western Bulldogs will put up a pretty good fight, but hopefully a good Hawthorn win,’’ he said.

 Waller has watched the Hawks battle it out in the last two AFL grand finals live at the MCG, and will be hoping for a chance to support them in a third consecutive final this year.