# Hawthorn Football Club roster and coaching changes

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hawthorn-football-club-roster-and-coaching-changes
> Updated: 2026-10-15T21:02:55.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

As the 2026 AFL off-season began, Hawthorn Football Club prepared for the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period. Reports suggested potential deals involving two players, noting that approximately 70% of the 44-player roster had been recruited during Sam Mitchell’s five seasons as senior coach.

By mid-October, the club had finalized significant roster and coaching additions for the 2027 season. Hawthorn acquired midfielder Zach Merrett and forward Ben King, moves that positioned the team as a “potential premiership favourite.” Additionally, retired veteran Dion Prestia was appointed as a development coach.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-15: Hawthorn bolsters roster and coaching staff for 2027 season

Hawthorn has strengthened its position for the 2027 AFL season by recruiting Zach Merrett and Ben King, while appointing veteran Dion Prestia as a development coach.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hawthorn-bolsters-roster-and-coaching-staff-for-2027-season

### 2026-10-11: Hawthorn Football Club prepares for AFL trade period and roster shifts

As the 2026 AFL Trade Period nears, Hawthorn Football Club prepares for potential player movements and reflects on Sam Mitchell's impact, having recruited 70% of the current playing list.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hawthorn-football-club-prepares-for-afl-trade-period-and-roster-shifts

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Cite as: Hawthorn Football Club roster and coaching changes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hawthorn-football-club-roster-and-coaching-changes