The Hawthorn Football Club is the only team to win a premiership every decade since 1960.

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 1902, the Hawthorn Football Club—known as the Hawks—has evolved from a struggling junior side into a dominant force in Australian rules football. Despite early years defined by financial instability and bottom-ladder finishes, the club forged a legendary identity through grit, tactical innovation, and a record-breaking era of sustained success.

The club's journey began in 1902 when Alf Kosky formed the team to compete in the Metropolitan Junior Football Association. Initially known as the Mayblooms, the club faced significant hurdles, including a lack of wealthy patrons and an inability to pay standard player wages. For nearly two decades after joining the VFL in 1925, Hawthorn struggled, often competing for the wooden spoon. A pivotal shift occurred in the 1950s under coach Jack Hale, who professionalized the club's culture and eliminated the casual attitude that had long hindered their performance.

The 1960s and 1970s marked the rise of 'Kennedy's Commandos,' a nickname reflecting the rigorous physical training programs implemented by coach John Kennedy. This era saw the club secure its first premiership in 1961 and establish a fierce identity. The 1980s represented the club's greatest period, characterized by seven consecutive grand final appearances and four premierships. This decade was defined by legendary figures like Jason Dunstall, Michael Tuck, and Dermott Brereton, who navigated legendary, high-stakes matches, including the physically brutal 1989 Grand Final against Geelong.

Beyond its on-field history, the club has undergone significant administrative and geographic transitions. Originally based in the inner-east suburb of Hawthorn, the club moved its training facilities to Waverley Park in 2006 and eventually to the purpose-built Kennedy Community Centre in Dingley Village in 2025. Today, the club maintains a diverse footprint, playing home games at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Marvel Stadium, while continuing a long-standing commitment to Launceston, Tasmania. The club also expanded its reach in 2022 with the debut of its women's team in the AFLW competition.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?

Related

• The 1991 AFL Grand Final was the only premiership decider held at Waverley Park
• The first non-Victorian team to conquer the AFL Grand Final
• How a Melbourne football club became a sporting giant and then hit rock bottom
• A season of historic firsts and the 'Line in the Sand'
• The world's oldest professional football club helped invent the game it now dominates.
• How the Red Army Team built a hockey dynasty through military conscription and discipline
• Havana's harbour made it Spain's Caribbean key
• The professional dancer who became a television comedy icon
• The volatile seat of power where political dynasties rule Haryana
• Hefei turned a market town into a science hub
• How a small-time broker manipulated the Indian stock market using worthless bank receipts
• From London's transport leadership to the UK's transport secretary

More in Cities · More in Countries & Cities · Latest · A–Z · All topics