Josh Battle Opens Up on Challenging Decision to Leave St Kilda for Hawthorn Amid Saints’ B&F Snub
In a candid conversation, Josh Battle reflects on one of the most challenging decisions of his career: leaving St Kilda, a club that has been his home since he was drafted, to join the Hawthorn Football Club. The new Hawthorn signing has faced considerable scrutiny and mixed emotions since announcing his departure, particularly in light of being overlooked for the Saints’ Best and Fairest (B&F) award. In an exclusive interview with Josh Gabelich, Battle delves into the motivations behind his decision, the emotional toll of leaving St Kilda, and his aspirations with the Hawks.
New Chapter: Leaving St Kilda
Josh Battle, a versatile defender who played a crucial role at St Kilda since his debut in 2017, found himself at a crossroads following a challenging season. While the Saints had their ups and downs, Battle’s commitment and talent never wavered. However, as the end of the season approached, it became increasingly clear to him that a change was necessary for both his career and personal growth.
“The decision to leave St Kilda was incredibly tough,” Battle admitted. “It’s a club I’ve grown with, a place where I’ve made lifelong friends and created so many memories. But sometimes, you have to look at the bigger picture and what’s best for your development and career path.”
After spending several years in a club that experienced fluctuations in performance and direction, Battle felt that a fresh start at Hawthorn would provide the ideal environment for him to thrive. With the Hawks in a transitional phase under new leadership and coaching staff, the prospect of contributing to a rebuilding team resonated with him.
The Emotional Fallout
Leaving a club where you’ve spent significant time is never easy, and for Battle, the emotional fallout was palpable. His close relationships with teammates, coaches, and staff at St Kilda weighed heavily on him. The decision was not just a career move; it involved leaving behind a community that had supported him through thick and thin.
“Part of me was heartbroken,” Battle reflected. “You form strong bonds with your teammates, and St Kilda was my family for so long. It was difficult to say goodbye, but I knew it was time for a new challenge. I owe it to myself to explore new opportunities.”
The situation was further complicated by his snubbing from the Saints’ B&F awards. As a dedicated player who consistently put in the effort, Battle was understandably disappointed. “It’s tough when you give everything for a club, and you feel like you’ve put in the work but aren’t recognized,” he acknowledged. “I know the system and the politics that can come into play, but it stings. I tried to keep my head down and focus on improving as a player, but it’s hard not to feel that emotional hit.”
Despite the initial disappointment, Battle has chosen to use this experience as motivation for his new chapter with the Hawks. “I’ve turned that disappointment into fuel for my fire. I want to show everyone, especially those who didn’t see my worth, that I can make a significant impact in this league.”
Embracing the Challenge at Hawthorn
As he settles into his new environment at Hawthorn, Battle is eager to embrace the challenges that lie ahead. The Hawks have undergone significant changes, and the club is in a period of rebuilding, which presents both opportunities and obstacles.
“I’ve had the chance to meet some of the new coaching staff and players, and the energy is infectious,” Battle said, his enthusiasm evident. “Hawthorn has a rich history, and while we’re in a transition, I believe in the vision that the club has laid out. It’s exciting to be part of something that’s building towards the future.”
One of Battle’s primary goals at Hawthorn is to enhance his versatility on the field. Known for his ability to play both as a defender and a forward, he aims to refine his skills further under the guidance of the Hawks’ coaching team. “I want to be that player who can be relied upon in multiple positions. The game is evolving, and versatility is becoming more crucial. I’m looking forward to developing that aspect of my game,” he explained.
Mentorship and Leadership Opportunities
Joining a club like Hawthorn, which has a strong history of success and a culture built around teamwork and resilience, offers Battle unique mentorship opportunities. The Hawks have several seasoned players who have experienced the highs and lows of AFL football, and Battle is keen to soak up as much knowledge as he can.
“I look up to the leaders at Hawthorn, and I’m excited to learn from them,” Battle said. “It’s a privilege to be around experienced players who have been through it all. I want to absorb their insights and apply them to my own game. Leadership is something I aspire to develop further, and I see this as an opportunity to step into that role.”
Battle’s experience at St Kilda, combined with his newfound knowledge at Hawthorn, positions him well to contribute to the club’s culture. “I hope to bring my own experience and energy to the group. We’re all in this together, and I want to be someone who can motivate and lift the team, especially during tough times.”
Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
As the new season approaches, Battle is setting ambitious goals for himself and the team. “I want to be a key contributor and play my part in helping the team succeed. It’s about working hard, learning from each game, and growing as a player,” he stated confidently.
For Battle, it’s not just about individual accolades; it’s about fostering a winning culture at Hawthorn. He understands the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving success. “Winning is the ultimate goal, but it’s also about how we get there. Building connections, supporting each other on and off the field, and fostering a positive environment are key elements to success.”
With the AFL landscape constantly evolving, Battle is excited to be part of a team that is ready to adapt and grow. “The competition is fierce, and every team is gunning for success. I’m looking forward to the challenge of competing at the highest level and being part of a group that’s hungry for improvement,” he remarked.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Change and Growth
As Josh Battle embarks on this new journey with the Hawthorn Football Club, he is determined to embrace the change and the growth that comes with it. Leaving St Kilda was undoubtedly a tough decision, but Battle views it as an opportunity to reinvent himself and contribute to a new chapter in his career.
“Life is about taking risks and challenging yourself. I’m excited about what’s to come,” he said with renewed enthusiasm. “Change can be daunting, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. I’m ready to put in the work and make my mark at Hawthorn.”
In the world of AFL, where loyalty and tradition often take center stage, Josh Battle’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes, the toughest decisions lead to the most significant growth. As he steps onto the field donning the Hawthorn colors, the football community watches with anticipation, eager to see how this new chapter unfolds for one of the game’s promising talents.
