Mathematically Hawthorn could lose top spot due to their low percentage but there is little chance of dropping another game over the next three weeks.  The loss was probably what was needed as the team that has dominated the last three seasons begins their campaign for a record equaling fourth consecutive premiership. 

Ordinarily we would be celebrating such an achievement, but this Hawthorn team is built on a win at all costs mentality has seen the once ‘family club’ become much maligned within supporter ranks of other clubs.  Whilst nobody disputes the wealth of talent Alistair Clarkson has at his disposal, the way Hawthorn go about their footy sometimes wouldn’t be considered within the spirit of the game.  One could construe these comments for jealousy but Hawthorn’s monotonous dominance isn’t good for anyone, other than Hawthorn supporters.

The typical Hawthorn supporter has that all too familiar swagger around the office on Monday mornings, and whilst we can admire some of the on field heroics by the players, almost four years of this arrogance is too much to handle for the average supporter.  You know who you are; the buzzing footy chatter is slowly replaced by mere silence as you enter the room wearing your Hawthorn scarf that prominently displays your four year membership like a badge of honor.

Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls managed to win both titles and friends through their sheer entertainment value, Geelong in the last decade won us over by taking the game on under the guise of Mark Thompson.  This current Hawthorn team continues to win but far from plays the most watchable footy in the league.  We can all admire a tough game style but this Hawthorn dominance has lasted far too long.  We all have the ability to be mesmerized by some Cyril magic when the time is right but the over the top love affair from one of the game’s best commentators has even put a dampener on that too.

This Hawthorn club has the ability to remain in games and win games from pure intimidation.  There is no denying Hawthorn are the bully boys of the AFL but we do have to sit back and applaud their courage and will to win.  Luke Hodge, Sam Mitchell and Jordan Lewis would happily walk barefoot over hot coals containing broken glass just to give a teammate the upper hand.  You cannot say that about too many other clubs this season. 

Hawthorn has won four games by less than a kick already this season and their percentage is one of the worst of the top eight contenders but their ability to pinch results and grind out wins doesn’t go unnoticed.  Great teams just know how to continue to get the job at hand done and this Hawthorn team is a glowing example of how far determination and a will to win can take you.

As hard as gleefully cheering on another club for the remainder of the season the dominance of brown and yellow over the previous seasons is just too much.  Even if it diminishing the chances of my own club’s chances of ultimate success, I know I cannot stomach a fourth Hawthorn premiership.  I am prepared to take an oath to support any team who are a genuine premiership contender outside Hawthorn. 

This is why we must take the #AnyoneButHawthorn oath for the remainder of the 2016 premiership season.