Against All Odds: The Inspiring Story of Hawthorn's Calsher Dear
From unexpected draft pick to AFL debutant and finals player in his rookie season, Calsher Dear's journey is one of resilience, talent, and overcoming adversity. The Hawthorn young gun, a father-son selection, has captivated fans with his incredible rise, proving that hard work and a humble approach can lead to remarkable success.
A Legacy Forged in Football and Family
Calsher Dear's name carries weight in Hawthorn's history. He's the son of Paul Dear, a 123-game Hawthorn legend and 1991 Norm Smith Medallist. Tragically, Paul passed away in 2022 after a battle with pancreatic cancer, a loss that deeply impacted Calsher and his family. This loss, however, fueled Calsher's determination to honor his father's memory.
Despite his pedigree, Calsher's path to the AFL wasn't straightforward. He played junior football with the Sandringham Dragons, excelling in basketball as well. He wasn't initially considered a likely draft prospect. But a stellar finals series changed everything. His impressive performances caught the attention of Hawthorn, but even then, his father-son selection wasn't guaranteed until very late in the process.
- Unexpected Draft: Calsher admits he never expected to be drafted, let alone play in the AFL. He acknowledges his strong finish to the season played a crucial role.
- Limited Interest: Only one other AFL club expressed interest in Calsher besides Hawthorn.
- Father-Son Uncertainty: Hawthorn's commitment to drafting him as a father-son selection wasn't confirmed until very late in the process.
From Rookie to Rising Star
Calsher's debut season in 2024 was nothing short of sensational. He played 17 games, kicking 25 goals, including a remarkable three-goal haul in the elimination final against the Western Bulldogs – Hawthorn's first final appearance since 2015. This performance further cemented his place as a promising young talent.
He attributes his success to a lack of self-imposed pressure and a realistic assessment of his abilities. He openly states that he didn't feel "AFL standard" when he first joined the club. This humility allowed him to seize opportunities that came his way due to injuries and suspensions of other players. His remarkable first season shocked both him and his coaches.
- Remarkable Debut Season: 17 games, 25 goals, and a key role in Hawthorn's finals campaign.
- Humility and Hard Work: Calsher's success is a testament to his hard work and humble attitude.
- Seizing Opportunities: He capitalized on opportunities presented by injuries and suspensions to other players.
Dare to Hope: A Legacy of Resilience
Calsher's story extends beyond the football field. He and his family established "Dare to Hope," a charity dedicated to raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer research in memory of his father. The charity is supported by Hawthorn and involves several former players, celebrities, and even other AFL players who have experienced similar loss.
The family organized a high-profile fundraising relay around the MCG, "The Gut Run," involving former AFL greats and comedians, aiming to significantly boost awareness and funding for pancreatic cancer research. This initiative highlights Calsher’s commitment to turning tragedy into a force for positive change within the community.
The Road to Recovery and Future Prospects
In 2025, a stress fracture in his back sidelined Calsher, but he’s since fully recovered and is set to make his return to VFL competition. His determination to overcome this setback mirrors the resilience he's shown throughout his entire football journey. Calsher's future is bright; his dedication, talent, and unwavering spirit promise a continued, successful career in the AFL.
Conclusion
Calsher Dear's journey is an inspiring tale of triumph over adversity. From a surprising draft pick to a key player in Hawthorn’s finals run, his story is a testament to talent, hard work, and the power of family legacy. His unwavering commitment to honoring his father’s memory through “Dare to Hope” further solidifies his status as a role model both on and off the field. His return from injury in 2025 promises even more excitement for Hawthorn supporters and AFL fans alike.
