The Hawks will host four matches per season at UTAS Stadium at least until the end of 2025. The latest extension continues a relationship which began in 2001.

Hawks chief executive Justin Reeves said the deal would continue to benefit the club, for the club has received millions of dollars in government funds via sponsorship to take matches to the island.

“To continue this partnership with the Tasmanian government until at least the end of 2025 is fantastic for our loyal 10,000-strong Tasmanian members and fans and the thousands of Hawthorn members and fans that travel from around the country to Launceston for our matches” Reeves said.

“Having this commitment provides certainty for the club, while the state continues to provide the highest AFL content and continue its pursuit of its own AFL team, which we have long said we are in support of.”

Hawks president Andy Gowers said the club would continue to work with the Tasmanian community.

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“As a club, we are incredibly proud to be extending this partnership and continue to play in front of our passionate Tasmanian members and fans,” Gowers said.

“Hawthorn’s partnership with Tasmania remains among the longest standing in the AFL, and we can’t wait to return to Launceston. We highly value our long-standing relationship with the Tasmanian Government and community and continue to ensure Hawthorn matches in Tasmania generate significant direct and indirect economic impacts to the state, particularly in the transport, tourism and hospitality sectors.”

The Hawks have been able to stage showcase matches in Launceston recently, including Anzac Day, Sir Doug Nicholls round and the state’s emergency services match.

AFL announces practice match schedule

Traditional rivals Carlton and Collingwood will meet in a practice match, while Geelong and Hawthorn will also clash as the AFL confirmed fixtures for unofficial and official practice matches.

The unofficial match simulation sessions begin on Thursday February 23, when the Cats host the Hawks at GMHBA Stadium, while the Gold Coast Suns will host Essendon. The Blues will host the Magpies at Ikon Park on February 24.

The Western Bulldogs and Greater Western Sydney will not take part in match simulations. They will instead play intra-club matches during their community camps.

The official round of practice matches begin on March 2, when three matches will be held, including the Hawks hosting the Magpies in Launceston.

Travis Auld, the league’s executive general manager clubs and broadcast, said the pre-season matches would help all teams.

“After an incredible 2022, in which we saw two AFLW seasons and one of the best AFL seasons on record, the football industry took a well-earned break. Now, footy returns and momentum builds for the 2023 premiership season,” Auld said.

“Fans will get their first glimpse at new players, new coaches, and new captains ahead of a big 2023 season.”