Finn Maginness is arguably one of the AFL’s most underrated players, quietly cementing himself as one of the competition’s best taggers in 2023, and in 2024, he diversified his role, becoming a more consistent and versatile performer across other multiple areas of the game.
His ability to nullify the influence of some of the league’s brightest stars is often overlooked, but the former Scotch College student’s consistent performance speaks for itself.
Taking his game to a new level in season 2024, Maginness’ all-around improvement elevated his performance and saw him move from being strictly a reliable shut-down player to a more dynamic and adaptable winger.
While playing the same number of games in both 2023 and 2024, the third-generation Hawk’s statistics increased significantly in each of the key areas including kicks, handballs, clearances and scoreboard impact, finishing the season kicking 6.6.
His contribution to the team was also evident by a rise in goal assists from two to five, as well as a noticeable increase in his one-percenters.
Maginness also demonstrated he can get on the scoreboard and be a big-game player kicking crucial goals in Hawthorn’s elimination final against the Western Bulldogs and again in the nail-biting semi-final loss to Port Adelaide.
Against Port, he was a standout shining light, finishing with 22 disposals, two tackles, two clearances, an inside-50 and a goal.
While he may not always receive the accolades, Finn’s value to Hawthorn cannot be overstated as his role often flies under the radar but is crucial to the team’s success.
While honouring the legacy of his 58-year-old father, Scott, and aiming for a future in premiership glory, Finn is determined to carve out his own place in Hawthorn’s history.
If Maginness can emulate his father’s achievements and help lead the side to premiership success, Hawthorn fans will be delighted.
He believes the team is poised for a period of success, one that mirrors the golden era of his father’s time.
“I think we’ve got Hawthorn’s next premiership team on our list at the moment, it’s just a matter of how quickly we can get there,” said Finn Maginness, reflecting on the young talent emerging at Hawthorn.
After making his debut for Hawthorn against the Western Bulldogs in round 17 of the 2020 season, Maginness has taken his game to new heights, particularly in 2023, where he matched up against the AFL’s top players, often limiting their impact.
Despite facing inconsistent selection, Maginness’ commitment and skill shone through, securing him a spot in 13 games during 2024, bringing his career tally to 45.
His standout performances in his first two finals against the Western Bulldogs and Port Adelaide showcased Maginness’ ability to rise to the occasion, reinforcing the utility’s importance to the team. Maginness has established a reputation as one of the premier run-with midfielders in the competition.
Throughout his career, Maginness has proven his exceptional tagging ability, shutting down high-profile opponents like Melbourne’s Ed Langdon and Clayton Oliver, GWS’s Josh Kelly, Gold Coast’s Touk Miller, St Kilda’s Jack Steele, and Collingwood’s Brownlow medallist Nick Daicos.
These performances demonstrate not only his defensive prowess but also his ability to impact the game offensively, making him a dual threat for Hawthorn.
Despite facing inconsistent selection, Maginness’ commitment and skill shone through, securing him a spot in 13 games during 2024, bringing his career tally to 45.
His standout performances in his first two finals against the Western Bulldogs and Port Adelaide showcased Maginness’ ability to rise to the occasion, reinforcing the utility’s importance to the team. He has established a reputation as one of the premier run-with midfielders in the competition.
Despite strong interest from rival clubs such as Essendon, Sydney, and GWS, Maginness chose to stay at Hawthorn, signing a contract extension through to 2027. This decision is a testament to his loyalty and belief in the direction the club is heading.
“I love the Hawthorn footy club, I love the people here, the players and coaches, it’s a great place to be,” said Maginness to Hawks media when he recommitted to the club.
“We’re trending in the right direction and it’s really exciting, so for me it was a really easy decision to stick to the Hawks.”
“I’ve got my dream job, I rock up every day with my best mates, kicking the footy around. It doesn’t get much better than that,” Maginness told 7News.
Once criticized for his disposal efficiency, it appears that issue is a thing of the past as the 23-year-old has put a tonne of work into improving his kicking, which was only just below 52 per cent efficiency in 2022, making significant strides in that area to cement his spot in the side.
His hard work is evident, with keen observers at Hawks training noting his improvement, particularly in drills testing kicking accuracy on his non-preferred foot.
Just days ago, during a training drill testing players’ ability to kick with their non-preferred foot, Maginness was one of the last two remaining players, demonstrating not only his enhanced technique but a strong commitment to mastering every aspect of his game.
This showed the midfielder’s kicking ability has improved dramatically and his dedication has turned a past weakness into a newfound strength.
While there are still areas of his game to refine, particularly around his speed in disposing of the ball and his ball-getting consistency, Maginness has shown a willingness to grow. Early pre-season training has highlighted his strong attitude and determination to become more consistent in Sam Mitchell’s side.
With his 24th birthday just around the corner (February), Maginness is on the cusp of entering the prime of his career. His speed, work ethic, incredible tagging ability and now-improved kicking efficiency position him to take the next step in his development.
With exceptional speed, consistent top performances in 2km, 2.2km, 3km, and 6km time trials, and an improved kicking efficiency, 2025 could be the year Finn Maginness makes a significant leap forward.
Building on his family’s proud legacy at Hawthorn, Maginness looks set to rise from being a whipping boy to firmly cementing himself among the AFL’s elite.
