Hawthorn defender Tom Barrass has expressed his mixed feelings and “honour” after beating his former West Coast teammates at Marvel Stadium on Sunday.

The defender played 150 games and won a flag for the Eagles before seeking a trade to Victoria at the end of West Coast’s lean 2024 campaign.

Barrass admitted that after his side ran out 50-point winners, he found playing in his old club an odd footballing experience.

“It was a bit funny, to be honest with you,” he told Fox Footy.

“I have a lot of love and respect for this footy club, and they gave me my first opportunity in the AFL.

“All the players are my life-long friends, so there were a few nerves this week and funny feelings, so I was very happy our midfielders were able to put on a show for us and get the ball going forward.

“I have a lot of love and respect for West Australian footy and the West Coast Eagles, so it was a bit of an honour to play against those boys.

“Gov taught me everything I know. He’s my best mate, and I look up to him a lot. He’s a champion footballer, so it was great to be able to get down and play on him.”

Barrass was even swung forward for the final quarter, with fans missing out on seeing the intercept machine take on form skipper Oscar Allen up forward after the Eagles co-captain was moved to defence by coach Andrew McQualter.

However, the Hawk suggested it may be the last time it ever happens after barely getting near the Sherrin.

“I think I will no longer be a forward ever again! I didn’t get my hands on the ball, so I think that will probably be the end of my forward career,” he said.

“I’ve been searching for the two for a little while now, but hopefully, I can back the second sometime in the future.”

Barrass kicked his one and only AFL goal at the Eagles off the back of a 50-metre penalty at Optus Stadium.