Alexander reminds his beloved Hawks to play with DASH and DARING… and to CELEBRATE. ‘We’re a happy team at Hawthorn.’
The series is designed for primary school-aged readers and centres around popular AFL clubs, including Collingwood, Hawthorn, Carlton, Essendon, the Brisbane Lions and the West Coast Eagles.
What sets this collection apart is its innovative integration of technology. Each book features QR codes that allow young readers to see their favourite players come to life through augmented reality—creating an immersive experience where players appear as though they are right in the same room.
Alexander The Great Hawks Assistant Coach is an engaging and educational title that resonates strongly with young readers and AFL fans alike.
Michael Sedunary is a celebrated, award-winning author of children’s books, renowned for his distinctive blend of humour, imagination, and educational insight. Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has created a diverse body of work—from AFL-themed picture books and engaging historical titles to innovative language learning textbooks. His witty, relatable style connects deeply with young readers, turning learning into an enjoyable adventure. Michael has a remarkable gift for making complex ideas accessible while promoting strong values through storytelling. Beyond the page, he is a passionate advocate for literacy and creativity, working closely with schools and libraries to ignite a lifelong love of reading.
Paul Harvey is one of the most talented, diverse and accomplished illustrators in the country. Based in the inner-city suburb of Richmond with his wife and three kids, ‘Harv’ as he is known, has had work published in most newspapers and is a contributor to a diverse range of magazines including Golf Victoria for over 15 years. Paul is also the author of Pup, his first novel.
* Hawthorn Hawks fans are invited to meet Alexander, who reminds his beloved Hawks to play with DASH and DARING… and to CELEBRATE.
* Alexander The Great Hawks Assistant Coach is an action filled story blending AFL facts, fun, history – and innovative, interactive technology.
* In creating this series of books, VR Sports Kids partnered both with the AFL and Vello Technologies (co-founded by Ben Dixon, former Hawthorn champion and Fox Footy presenter).
* QR codes bring heroes to life through augmented reality – creating an immersive experience where players appear as though they are in the same room as the reader – and then share footy tips and tricks.
* The story includes cultural insights inspired by the lives and backgrounds of players.
Publicity:
* The books will be featured prominently across the Fox Footy coverage in the lead up and into the 2025 Finals Series, including on Bounce.
* A strong social media campaign is planned, alongside launch events with AFL players and past champions.
