Brandon Ryan Biography

Jack Gunston has been granted his return to Hawthorn, with the Hawks sending Brandon Ryan to complete the trade with Brisbane.

"Gunners' is a high calibre person and player, and for him to walk back though our doors at Hawthorn is a terrific outcome," the Hawks' national list and recruiting manager Mark McKenzie said.

"Whilst still contributing strongly on the field, he'll also play an important role in helping foster the emerging talent on our list."

Brandon Ryan is still pinching himself after his rapid rise since being selected in the 2023 mid-season draft by Hawthorn.

"I can't believe this is real, to be honest. I'm still pinching myself. The levels keep rising and it is just awesome to be on this journey," Ryan said.

"The goal at the start of the year was just to tick off a VFL pre-season. When I did that it was to play a game. When I did all right, the goals kept rising and I was going with the flow. There wasn't a big thought of 'Let's make AFL', it was step by step and see what happens."

Brandon Ryan makes his AFL debut for Hawthorn at Docklands Stadium with 8 disposals (8 kicks), 5 marks, 2 tackles and a goal in a 29-point loss to St Kilda.

Hawthorn select Brandon Ryan with pick No.12 in the 2023 Mid-Season Draft.