AFL Grand Final parade stops city

HAWTHORN and Sydney players say they are ready to play in heavy rain after fans braved tough conditions today to see their heroes.

HAWTHORN and Sydney players say they are ready to play in heavy rain after tens of thousands of fans braved tough conditions today to see their heroes.

Hawthorn  midfielder Jordan Lewis says tomorrow’s predicted downpour will not hand Sydney an advantage - and is praying for the rain to keep coming.

When asked if the Hawks would be complaining should Melbourne’s wintry turn continue, Lewis said: “Absolutely not.

“If it’s still raining tomorrow then I’ll absolutely love the conditions.”

Pictures: AFL Grand Final parade

Speaking at today’s Grand Final parade, the 2008 premiership star said nerves were yet to kick in.

“I feel quite relaxed at the moment,” he said.

“The whole parade is a great opportunity to sit back and really enjoy the moment.

GF parade: What the Swans players had to say

“I feel sorry for you guys out there, we’re inside a nice Toyota with the heater on. But it’s great to see so many people out their supporting both clubs.”

The Hawks and Swans were presented to a massive crowd outside the Treasury Building at 1pm today, but Lewis said his side would get down to business soon after with a key team meeting planned.


GF parade: What the Hawks stars had to say

“We had a little discussion yesterday, but main team meeting is today,” he said.

“We’ll have to wait until then to see who will match up on who.”

Lewis had a team-high 28 disposals and laid six tackles as Hawthorn edged Sydney at the SCG in Round 22.

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Rain and gloomy skies that descended on the city this morning didn't dampen the spirits of thousands of Hawk and Swan supporters.

Junior swans fan Sam Heriot, 9, was among the hundreds lining Princes Bridge and said he was braving the rain for good reason.

"My grandfather is John Heriot who played for South Melbourne, he was vice-captain," Sam said.

Jarryd Roughead

Mum Shelley said the family wouldn't have missed the chance to cheer on their team.

Nick Hough, of Dingley, brought his five-year-old son Taylor.

"lt’s about bringing the kids. This is his first parade, he loves the Swans."

Panic Room Grand Final formguide

Hawks fan Fiona Robertson drove from Mt Martha to see the players.

"We don't care about the rain, we love Hawthorn and will be back here tomorrow."

Grand Final parade

As the countdown to the Grand Final continues, the Hawks last night made one change to their team - recalling skipper Luke Hodge and dropping unlucky defender Tom Murphy.

And the AFL has announced the panel that will vote on the Norm Smith Medal for the best player in tomorrow's game. It will be chaired by sacked Carlton coach Brett Ratten and includes his replacement Mick Malthouse.