New Chapter for Hawthorn and Its Community
The Hawthorn Football Club has marked a milestone in its storied history with the official opening of the Kennedy Community Centre, the club’s new headquarters located in Dingley. Named in honour of a revered figure in Australian football, the centre signals a renewed commitment to player development, community engagement, and long-term sustainability for Hawthorn’s supporters and residents across the region.
A Modern Home for a Historic Club
Designed to support the club’s on-field ambitions and off-field initiatives, the Kennedy Community Centre combines state-of-the-art training facilities with spaces dedicated to education, media, and community outreach. The complex serves as a hub where players, staff, and fans can intersect, exchange ideas, and participate in programs that extend Hawthorn’s influence beyond match days.
Facilities That Foster Growth On and Off the Field
Inside the centre, players have access to advanced gym facilities, recovery zones, and biomechanics labs designed to optimise performance and longevity. For the next generation of Hawthorn talent, there are dedicated development zones, mentoring rooms, and classrooms that support academic and athletic growth. The integration of wellness and community education ensures that the club remains a pillar of opportunity for young athletes and local families alike.
Community Programs at the Core
Beyond elite sport, the Kennedy Community Centre hosts a variety of community programs, youth initiatives, and outreach projects. The club’s leadership emphasises accessibility, with events tailored to schools, local clubs, and residents in nearby suburbs. By weaving education, sport, and social impact together, Hawthorn aims to enrich lives and strengthen community ties throughout the region.
Honouring Heritage While Looking Ahead
Naming the centre in honour of an Australian Football Hall of Fame figure reflects Hawthorn’s respect for its history while underscoring a forward-looking vision. The space is designed to celebrate the club’s achievements, while also forging pathways for future champions to thrive in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Leadership and Community Voices
Club leaders, players, alumni, and community partners gathered to celebrate the opening, underscoring a shared belief that sport can unite peoples and communities. Representatives spoke about the centre’s potential to inspire the next generation of athletes, volunteers, and mentors who will carry Hawthorn’s values into schools, clubs, and workplaces.
What This Means for Hawthorn’s Future
With the Kennedy Community Centre now operational, Hawthorn positions itself at the intersection of performance excellence and civic responsibility. The centre will host training camps, youth clinics, and public programs that enhance fan engagement while promoting physical activity, education, and healthy lifestyles. The investment signals confidence in Hawthorn’s long-term growth and its commitment to being a responsible community partner well beyond game days.
Join the Conversation
Fans and residents are invited to participate in upcoming open days, tours, and community events at the Kennedy Community Centre. As Hawthorn embarks on this new era, the club encourages dialogue with supporters about how the centre can best serve families, learners, and aspiring athletes in the years ahead.
