Hawthorn's Josh Battle Reflects on Finals Experience Ahead of 2026 Premiership Bid

Hawthorn defender Josh Battle expressed confidence that the team's experience from last year's finals campaign will aid their pursuit of the 2026 premiership. The Hawks faced Geelong in a preliminary final last year, which provided valuable lessons about the intensity of finals football.

During a press conference, Battle reflected on the disappointment of their preliminary final loss, emphasizing the importance of learning from that experience. He noted that the atmosphere of playing in front of nearly 100,000 fans was significant for the team's development.

Battle highlighted the squad's confidence, stating that when they perform at their best, they can compete effectively against any opponent. The team is currently in good shape, with Box Hill qualifying for the VFL grand final after a close victory over Essendon. Hawthorn's recent performance against Fremantle showcased their potential as they prepare for the upcoming finals.