Cheers and jeers, hugs and thugs: life as a sporting mascot is anything but predictable

From punches in the beak to inflatable hammer attacks, I’ve copped it every which way in my 19 years as ‘Hawka’

“Hawka, ya dickhead!” *THWACK* I’ve just been punched in my spongey beak by a pre-teen Collingwood fan. It didn’t tickle.

Yes, I’m wearing the Hawthorn FC mascot suit, dressed as Hudson “Hawka” Knights. Yes, I’m on level two of the MCG, deep in enemy territory sans minder (where did she get to?). And yes, the brown and gold are giving the Pies a touch-up. But there’s no need for this.

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