EFNL 2021: Lachie McKernan steps down as Hawks skipper

Boronia’s new-look leadership will be on show when it runs out this weekend – while an all-time great is in line to return.

Hawks premiership captain Lachie McKernan has stepped aside. Picture: David Nicholas Photography

Boronia is set for a new look when it runs out for its opening match this weekend, with its long-serving skipper stepping aside – while a former captain is in line to return.

Premiership captain Lachie McKernan has stepped away from the role after five years, in a tenure which took the Hawks to their first flag in 18 years in 2018.

He’s set to play on, while club stalwart Harry Burgess has taken on the captaincy.

Burgess joined the Hawks as a junior in 2003, later graduating to the senior ranks where he debuted in 2014, claiming the club best and fairest in 2015 before forming part of Boronia’s Division 3 premiership side in ‘18.

He returns to the club for the 2021 campaign following a couple of seasons away, where he embarked on a stint with Texas-based Australian rules outfit, the Austin Crows, taking in a premiership along the way.

Locked in: Harry Burgess will lead the Hawks this season. Picture: David Nicholas Photography

The former under-19 skipper will be joined by Luke Hannon as vice-captain and Ryan White as deputy.

Boronia president Greg Hannon paid tribute to McKernan for his contribution as skipper, after previously crossing to the Hawks from league powerhouse Vermont at the end of 2011.

Hannon added personal circumstances had prompted the change and lauded the new-look leadership group voted in by the players, which includes son and 2018 premiership best on ground, Luke.

“He (McKernan) has just got married, had a baby and his career’s taking off, he thinks it’s just the right time for someone else to have a go while he’s still playing,” Hannon said.

“It was a very close vote and we’ve got three great leaders there, so the club’s in good stead.”

This weekend could also mark the comeback of an all-time club great, with former skipper Jess Bolton looking to pull the boots on for the first time since 2019, after initially retiring in June of that season. The club announced his intention of a comeback in October of last year.

Jess Bolton is chaired off in his final game for Boronia. Picture: David Nicholas Photography

Bolton is one of the club’s most decorated players, with more than 150 games for Boronia, two best and fairest awards, five Team of the Year honours and a premiership in 2018.

Hannon said Bolton’s return would be a major boost following a strong pre-season.

“He’s actually lighter than he was than when he retired,” Hannon said.

“He’s fit, he’s keen and he’s a dual best and fairest winner so he’s like a new recruit for us – it’s terrific for us.”

Boronia opens its season away to Knox this Saturday.