Cooper Hodge chooses Hawthorn over Brisbane in AFL draft decision

AFL draft prospect Cooper Hodge has selected Hawthorn as his preferred destination ahead of the national draft, opting to join the club under the father-son rule. The 18-year-old had the opportunity to join the Brisbane Lions as a Lions Academy selection, having developed through their program in Queensland.

Cooper Hodge is the son of four-time premiership champion Luke Hodge, who played 305 games for Hawthorn before finishing his career with Brisbane. Hawthorn released a statement welcoming the decision, noting that Cooper has already spent two pre-seasons training with the club as part of their father-son program. The Hawks are expected to match a bid for the player during the draft.