Thousands celebrate Hawthorn's win

(AAP) Thousands of Hawthorn fans have packed Melbourne's Federation Square on Saturday night to cheer on the 2008 AFL premiers.

Several hours after the Hawks ended their 17-year title AFL title drought, the
victorious 2008 premiers were presented on stage at Federation Square.
Avid Hawks fans Wendy Brockwell and Stephen Sullivan, of Caroline Springs, said they
were rapt with the grand final result.
Ms Brockwell also predicted the title win was the start of a new era for the Hawks.
"They all played a great game. They've been planning this for the last three or four
years," Ms Brockwell said.
"They've got a really young team, they are playing the best they've ever played,
they have got great players, a great coach, great support - I just think they'll go
onto bigger and better things now."
Mr Sullivan also predicted a bright future for Hawthorn, saying despite an even game
with the Geelong Cats, over the first and second quarters of the game, his beloved
Hawks proved just two strong.
"They're only young, there's no reason why we can't keep this up for the next few
years - and Buddy (Franklin) will just get better and better."
Scotsman Jamie Adam said he had not missed a Hawks game since arriving in Australia
on his working holiday visa last year and joining the club.
He and friend Alain Cirganyan said they were planning for a big night.
"When I arrived in Australia, my aunt who lives in Hawthorn East said I had no
option but to support the Hawks, so I got my membership and I've been to every game
since," Mr Adam said.
While Mr Adam said he was able to secure a ticket to the game through the club's
ballot system, Mr Cirganyan said he had to rely on "an alternative ticket source".
"I scalped - and I'm so glad I did. Go the Hawks," Mr Cirganyan said.
The triumphant Hawthorn players were due on stage at Federation Square at 8.00pm
before being formally presented to the club's loyal supporters at their spiritual
home, Glenferrie Oval.