Hawthorn forward Jack Ginnivan has acknowledged the challenges Tasmania faces in attracting young AFL talent from other states, reaffirming his intention to remain with the Hawks long term despite the upcoming expansion draft that will allow Tasmania access to up to 18 uncontracted players.

Speaking on Thursday, the 23-year-old said relocating to Tasmania was not a prospect he could currently envision, citing his established lifestyle in Melbourne as a key factor. “To be honest, I don’t think I could live in Tassie. My lifestyle in Melbourne is too elite to go down to Tassie,” Ginnivan told SEN. While he suggested a substantial financial offer might change his mind, he added that the pull of his current environment would be strong.

Ginnivan noted that many of his AFL peers from Melbourne and the Gold Coast might feel similarly reluctant to move. He described the challenge facing Tasmania’s recruitment efforts as significant, given many players have spent their entire lives in larger cities with more established amenities and social environments. “I think it will be pretty challenging for Tassie to get young kids from Melbourne. Obviously the lifestyle is amazing in Gold Coast and in Melbourne ... I’ve got some mates up in Goldie and I think everyone loves a bit of atmosphere,” he said. He also highlighted the role of Tasmania’s coach, Ken Hinkley, in potentially overcoming such recruitment hurdles.

Despite his comments about Tasmania, Ginnivan indicated he was focused on his future with Hawthorn, though discussions around a new contract were not an immediate priority. “I was talking to Mum and Dad about it ... when you think about it too much, it becomes too much, so you just let these things play out,” he said.

Ginnivan’s remarks come as Tasmania prepares to enter the AFL competition with a new team, aiming to build a competitive roster through access to uncontracted players across the league. The state’s ability to convince players to relocate from established clubs and cities will be a crucial factor in the new franchise’s early development.