In an embarrassment of ruck riches at the Hawks, Hale’s retirement will open the door for Ceglar to take the No.2 ruck spot behind McEvoy next season.

Dederang-raised ruckman McEvoy said losing Hale, 31, was a big blow to the Hawks after their three-peat.

“It’s a little bit sad, I suppose,” he told The Border Mail on Thursday.

“He’s an awesome guy so we’ll miss having him at the club.

“He’s been great to play with and a huge help to me.

“He’s very calm and just gets the job done.

“I wish him all the best.

“Hopefully me and ‘Cegs’ can build a strong partnership in the next couple of years.”

Ceglar has been the Hawks’ hard luck story for the past two years, being an emergency for the past two grand finals.

Last year, McEvoy was out of the side from round 21, but replaced Ceglar in the grand final team.

McEvoy knows all about seizing an opportunity when it presents himself.

He was dropped for St Kilda's 2010 grand final draw against Collingwood and then recalled for the replay, which the Saints lost.

But that’s history.

After his surprise trade from the Saints, McEvoy now has two premiership medals.

This year’s grand final win was even more special, as McEvoy got to share it with his new nephew, Leo.

“I had my little nephew out on the ground this year which was awesome and a great memory for the both of us,” McEvoy said.

“The moment when that siren goes, the emotion just hits you.

“All that hard work ... you’ve achieved what you set out to.

“It’s a huge achievement to win a grand final, but also a huge achievement to get there.”