The Western Bulldogs unveiled the Doug Hawkins Wing today - recognising one of the Club’s greatest champions - and returning a symbolic part of the ground following the completion of the $31 million redevelopment of Whitten Oval. 

The return of the sign to the city side of the ground is a proud moment for the Club - re-establishing an important part of Bulldog heritage.

Watch Doug Hawkins' passionate speech to the players and staff of the Club at the unveiling on the media player above, or on the Club Mobile App.

The wing was named in honor of Hawkins, an AFL and Western Bulldogs Hall of Famer and Bulldogs Team of the Century member, after making a name for himself through the area at the Whitten Oval.

Hawkins, a true son of the West, made his VFL debut for Footscray in 1978 - starting a playing career that that spanned almost two decades and 227 goals. 

Hawkins playing honors include: Footscray Best & Fairest 1985; Footscray captain 1990-1993; Footcrays Leading goalkicker 1991; Footscray/Western Bulldogs Team of the Century; All Australian 1984, 1986. 

“This is fantastic - isn’t it?” Hawkins said today. 

“I really thank the footy club for doing this - particularly at the ground where I spent so much of my time - on that outer wing. It’s great”. 

The return of the Doug Hawkins Wing will bring back some great memories for the Bulldog faithful especially in the lead up to the Club’s Hall of Fame later this month on the 26^th of May.  

See below a photo of the original Doug Hawkins Wing then and now...