Cameron Smith approached by Hawthorn for potential leadership role in 2021
Cameron Smith is on track to follow in the footsteps of former teammates Billy Slater and Cooper Cronk with the NRL great poised to join an AFL club in a leadership role.
In yet another indication the Storm legend has played his last game, Hawthorn has expressed interest in Smith joining its ranks in a specialised role that will see him help mentor some of their players next season.
It's understood the Hawks are looking to appoint a new captain and have plans to implement a new leadership model at the club during the preseason.
Cameron Smith with the NRL trophy after winning the grand final with Melbourne Storm. Getty
The Hawks are in a period transition with former captain Ben Stratton retiring leaving several candidates in contention to take over in 2021.
Jaeger O'Meara, Jack Gunston, Tom Mitchell, Liam Shiels and James Sicily are viewed as the top contenders for the role.
St Kilda secured Storm champion Billy Slater in a similar role in late 2018, while GWS Giants also signed Cooper Cronk to work with their players.
Smith is tipped to retire from the NRL after leading the Storm to another premiership this year.
Billy Slater and Craig Bellamy were also key figures in creating the Storm's culture. Getty
His leadership qualities have been a big part of Melbourne's success on the field after leading the club to multiple premierships while creating a culture along with Craig Bellamy that is arguably the strongest in the NRL.
The Storm is also keen to keep Smith in a coaching role if he does retire, with the Maroons legend expected to move to Queensland post-career.
The Storm champion already has strong ties with Hawthorn as a long-time supporter and close friend of premiership veteran Shaun Burgoyne.
