Applause greeted Hawthorn veteran Luke Hodge as he ran through a banner with his face on it and onto the UTAS Stadium grounds.
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Earlier, bright flashes of fireworks sparkled in the afternoon sky as large Hawk flags were waved from around the field.
The North Melbourne and Hawthorn game marked a special day for the Donnelly family, who have been supporting the Hawks, and Mr Hodge, for many years.
GALLERY: Thousands farewell Luke Hodge
When asked what impact Mr Hodge made for the Hawks, Paul Donnelly, of Launceston, said, “He’s a champion”.
“He first started playing here 15 years ago, and he has given Tasmania a lot over the years,” Mr Donnelly said.
He was watching the game with his two daughters Abbie and Gemma, who had met Mr Hodge at a meet and greet.
“He’s been appreciative of his supporters,” Mr Donnelly said.
“It’s going to be sad to see him go.”
Melissa McGillivray, of George Town, created a placard to show her support of the Hawks legend.
“I’ve been a bit teary … it’s a very big deal for Tassie supporters,” Ms McGillivray said.
“His leadership is second to none.”
Margaret Hamilton, of Hobart, had a jersey with Hodgey’s number 15 on the back.
“I think they’ll need to find someone good to replace him,” Ms Hamilton said.
“He’s won games for them and plays well.”
Wearing a Hawks gold and brown scarf, Russell Wescombe, of Burnie, hoped it would be a Hawthorn win to commemorate Mr Hodge’s time in the club.
“It’s an end of an era, but we’re certainly grateful for all the success we’ve had with him in the club,” Mr Wescombe said.
It was an exciting day for Jack Weston, of Hobart.
Not only was it his 10th birthday, but also the first time he had watched the Hawks and ‘Hodgey’ play live.
It was not the first time he had ever seen Mr Hodge in the flesh, they met as a meet and greet in Hobart.
He hoped it would be an exciting match and he would get to meet some of the players.