RECREATING AN EMPIRE

Q Hawthorn have won four premierships in the past decade but fell off a little in 2017. How quickly can it become a powerhouse again?

A We will be top eight next year, without any question of doubt. Where we go after that, I have set my own personal objectives after that but I’d like to under-promise and over-deliver. So 2018 top eight and 2019 will be different.

Q Have you set about finding your new CEO to replace Tracey Gaudry (pictured)?

A Yes. I’m not using a head-hunter. I have been talking to a lot of experienced people in the game and I have also met with three potential candidates.