Emily Bates reaches 100 games as Hawthorn debuts Kennedy Community Centre

Hawthorn captain Emily Bates will reach the 100-game milestone during the upcoming AFLW match against Adelaide. The fixture serves as the first senior AFLW game held at the club's new Kennedy Community Centre in Dingley. Hawthorn has not hosted a senior VFL, AFL, or AFLW match at a dedicated home base since departing Glenferrie in 1973. Bates, a former Brisbane player who joined the Hawks in 2023, has been widely recognized by teammates for her professionalism. The club anticipates the new facility will act as a permanent home to foster team development and fan engagement. Hawthorn players expect the local conditions at the new venue to provide a competitive advantage in Sunday's matchup.

• 7:14 AMAFL — Hawks mark Bates' milestone with Dingley debut amid sea of tribute t-shirts