‘Fire in his belly’: Cats star set to ink new deal

Emma Hawkins says the Cats’ young list makes her husband “feel like he’s 22 again” as the star forward edges closer to signing a new deal for 2024.

Emma Hawkins says husband Tom has a “fire in his belly” as he eyes an incredible 18th AFL season.

Speaking at the Geelong Football Club’s Best and Fairest award last week, Emma – a successful businesswoman and top influencer – said the Geelong superstar forward was reaping much enjoyment out of seeing the younger players coming through.

He has yet to formally put pen to paper on a new deal but it is expected to be done this week.

Tom and Emma Hawkins at Geelong’s Best and Fairest award this month. Picture: Mark Wilson

“Tom always said when he physically can’t or mentally can’t (he’d retire) but when the Cats didn’t make finals I could tell there was a fire in his belly,’’ Emma said.

“He said we have the right people in place and he’s excited to get going. That’s how much he believes in this group.

“Tom’s biggest enjoyment that I could see is spending time with the younger group. The passion he has, maybe they make him feel like he’s 22 again, but he loves the group.”

Tom, 35, is still playing some of his best football after 347 games and claiming another premiership last season.

His best mate Joel Selwood retired after the grand final.

“I don’t feel that Joel has been too far away,’’ Emma said.

“They’ve spoken more on the phone than I’ve ever witnessed in 17 years. He’s still got Mitch (Duncan), Jeremy (Cameron) and Stewy (Tom Stewart) and he’s happy.”

The Hawkins have three children, Arabella, Primrose and Henry.

They will head to Fiji for a family holiday and Tom already took Henry on a special trip to his hometown Finley.

“Henry just wants to be outside and be on tractors,’’ Emma said.

“I know Tom is truly happiest when he’s in Finley on his dad’s farm. It’s his happy place and to have that time with Henry and his dad was special.”