Hawthorn FC Partnership Boosts Literacy
The Tasmanian Government has joined forces with Hawthorn Football Club to promote the importance of reading.
The collaboration will include a series of videos featuring Hawthorn players Will Day and Josh Weddle, highlighting the value of reading and libraries.
Minister for Education, Jo Palmer, said the videos are a fun way to encourage students and their families to embrace the many benefits that reading brings.
“We know that Hawthorn players are role models to many Tasmanians and this partnership is a fantastic way to get children and their families excited about reading and visiting their local library,” Minister Palmer said.
“The videos, filmed at Legana Primary School and Launceston Library, cover three main themes: the importance of reading; improving literacy is a team effort; and Tasmanian public libraries as literacy rich environments.
“Literacy and reading skills are the building blocks for life, and an important part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future is to lift literacy outcomes for all students.”
Hawthorn CEO, Ash Klein, said Hawthorn is proud to be extending its collaboration with the Tasmanian Government to help lift literacy rates among children across the State.
“Having supported the Tasmania Premier’s Reading Challenge for the past eight years, we know the benefits of developing reading skills at a young age,” Klein said.
“Drawing inspiration from our players as reading role models, we are excited by making a meaningful impact on young Tasmanians in kicking reading their goals.”
This collaboration builds on Hawthorn’s existing literacy advocacy as part of their community work in Tasmania.
This includes school visits using reading and literacy as a central theme, and the Hawks Reading Lounge at Hawthorn home games in Launceston.
The videos will be shared on the Department for Education, Children and Young People and Hawthorn’s websites and social media channels in the coming weeks.
https://www.premier.tas.gov.au/latest-news/2025/march/hawthorn-football-club-partnership-aims-to-lift-literacy