Hawthorn will look to alter their game plan in 2022, a move to more of an attacking brand will be the focus for the upcoming season.
James Sicily acknowledged the change in an interview with Mitch Cleary on 7 News Melbourne on Tuesday night.
“I think we’ll be more of an attacking side, where in the past probably we’ve been a little bit more defensive.” Sicily said.
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Mitch Cleary also followed up with an interview on RSN on Wednesday morning adding extra insight into the ball movement for the Hawks & what impact that could have on the role for Sicily this year.
“(James Sicily) did mention that he made his name as a defender after starting his career as a forward, he said he wouldn’t mind maybe spending a bit more time in attack this year given how quick the ball movement will be”.
“Maybe that’s something that Sam Mitchell might have up his sleeve, to swing James Sicily as a bit of a swing man”. Cleary said.
Mitch Lewis also provided insight earlier this week on RSN when discussing the Hawks game plan & the positive impact it would have on forwards.
“Hopefully our style of ball movement and game plan can really help the forwards to have a strong season”. Lewis said.
Hawthorn senior coach Sam Mitchell provided an update on the role for James Sicily early in December.
“I think he’s played his best footy in defence, he’s most confident in defence.”
“We haven’t got too much into that detail at this stage, but I certainly see him as a defender at the moment.” Mitchell said.
Hawthorn open their season against Nth Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday March 20.
Source: RSN Mitch Cleary
Image: Hawthorn
Fantasy Impact: Change is coming at Hawthorn this year as senior coach Sam Mitchell enters his first full season, it is apparent the Hawks will want to move the ball far quicker than previously.
This could have a negative impact on several players at the Hawks from a fantasy perspective with quicker ball movement, thus limiting fast repetitive disposals to accumulate points.
As for James Sicily, any type of forward role throughout the year may limit his fantasy output.
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He averaged 17.8 Disposals, 5.6 Marks & 0.8 Tackles from 11 games in 2020 (*16 Min Qtrs).
Sicily is still a consideration for season long fantasy at Round 1, confirmation on his specific role for the entire year is likely a must prior to the season starting.
He’s a mid-round option in single season draft leagues.
