The Tasmania Devils, preparing for their league entry in 2028, are reportedly targeting Hawthorn's Jack Ginnivan as a key player for their inaugural squad. This pursuit could lead to an uncomfortable dynamic, as Ginnivan's potential signing would unite him with the Devils' newly appointed head coach, Ken Hinkley.
Hinkley and Ginnivan were involved in a public dispute in 2024. Then coaching Port Adelaide, Hinkley was fined $20,000 for a gesture he made towards Ginnivan and the Hawthorn team following a semi-final victory. The incident, which involved Hinkley making an aeroplane gesture and directing it at Ginnivan, reportedly stemmed from the Hawthorn player's social media activity prior to the game, where he had suggested his team would defeat Port Adelaide.
The rivalry resurfaced the following season when the AFL used the incident as promotional material for a clash between Port Adelaide and Hawthorn. After kicking a goal, Ginnivan celebrated with his own aeroplane gesture, referencing the 2024 confrontation.
According to 7NEWS reporter Xander McGuire, Ginnivan is a name on the Tasmania Devils' 'whiteboard' as they assemble their roster. "I can tell you tonight that Jack Ginnivan is on the whiteboard of the Tassie Devils," McGuire stated. "He's a player that they're interested in... Ginnivan hasn't got to that stage yet, but they have expressed an interest in him."
Ginnivan's contract with Hawthorn concludes at the end of the 2027 season, aligning with the Devils' 2028 debut. Tasmania's recruitment head, Derek Hine, who originally signed Ginnivan to Collingwood, could also facilitate the move. McGuire suggested Ginnivan's appeal extends beyond the field, citing his significant social media presence as a valuable asset for building the Tasmania brand and attracting other young players. "They need someone that's got the three S's. Social capital, social media, and a bit of street cred," McGuire explained. "They need someone that signals to all the young players in the AFL. Tassie is cool. Tassie is fun. Tassie has a great nightlife."
Should Hinkley and Ginnivan join forces, any lingering animosity from their past feud would need to be addressed. However, Ginnivan's reported maturity on and off the field suggests this may not pose a significant obstacle.