Hawthorn have named dual AFL premiership ruckman Ben McEvoy as their new captain.

The 31-year-old takes over from flag-winning teammate Ben Stratton, who retired last year.

Jaeger O’Meara has been named the Hawks’ sole vice-captain after a leadership selection process facilitated by Leading Teams.

Rising star James Worpel joins experienced trio Liam Shiels, Jack Gunston and Tom Mitchell in rounding out the six-man leadership group.

“We’ve got a fantastic mix of youth and experience within our ranks and this leadership group is reflective of that,” Hawthorn CEO Justin Reeves said.

“Ben is one of those people who is universally admired both inside and outside Hawthorn’s walls.

“He’s a salt of the earth, family man with strong values and we know he’ll set a fantastic example leading from the front.

“Ben is much loved by all at the club, including our members, and exemplifies what it is to be a Hawthorn person.

“Everyone at the club is proud to have Ben McEvoy as our leader.”

Worpel, 22, is viewed by many as a future Hawthorn captain and is the only new addition to the leadership group as he enters his fourth AFL season.

“James Worpel’s inclusion in the group is a testament to his natural leadership qualities and rapid development over his first three seasons,” Reeves said.

“The attributes he has shown so far make it clear that he is ready to take the step into our leadership group.

“We know these six men will drive the standards for their teammates with great leadership and discipline and we’re looking forward to watching them propel the Hawks forward in 2021.”

Hawthorn are looking to bounce back into finals contention this season after missing out the last two years.

The Hawks finished 15th with a 5-12 record last season.