Hawthorn could soon be back to completing unbeaten seasons at UTAS Stadium, hopes new leadership group member James Worpel.
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After starting 2020 at 3-1, the Hawks won just two more games to finish the COVID-shortened campaign with their lowest points tally since 2005.
Border closures meant Tasmania was off-limits for all of last year, denying the Hawks a chance to play at UTAS Stadium, where their record betters that of any AFL club at any venue.
The Hawks have not completed a clean sweep of all four Launceston games since 2016, but will stand a good chance should they return to their best in 2021.
"Last year was really disappointing and we think as a footy club there's only one way and that's up," Worpel said.
'We want to be better than 15th and we believe that we're better than 15th, so we're going to have a good crack this year and hopefully win a few more games.
"We don't lose many games down there [in Tasmania] so as soon as were allowed to come back ... I'm sure we'll be down as soon as we can."
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The Hawks announced their new leadership group on Friday, with rising midfielder Worpel the sole inclusion from last year.
The 48-gamer and 2019 best and fairest winner was thrilled to receive the honour having only turned 22 on Sunday.
"It's very humbling and exciting only being in my fourth year, it's good to get some recognition from the players," he said.
"I think the footy club and the players have a bit of trust around me which is good but I'll try my best at leading the team and learning as much as I can. I'm excited and I'm keen to get going."
Ruckman Ben McEvoy was appointed the replacement for retired defender Ben Stratton, who captained the club for two seasons.
"Big Boy was a great choice of captain - he's a really good teacher, a really good educator for the younger group and the older boys as well learn off him," Worpel said.
"He's really selfless on field, tough and courageous which is also very important to be a good leader, so him and his family are super excited and we're super excited for him."
Hawthorn is set to host Adelaide, North Melbourne, Fremantle and the Western Bulldogs at UTAS Stadium in 2021.
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Hamish Geale
Hamish Geale is a senior reporter at The Examiner. Got good news? Email: hgeale@examiner.com.au
Hamish Geale is a senior reporter at The Examiner. Got good news? Email: hgeale@examiner.com.au
