Bateman was Hawthorn's first indigenous player to reach 100 games, first Aboriginal life member, and the club's longest-serving WA recruit.

His light frame made him a longer term prospect as he would require to develop more physically.

Bateman said the true sense of worth for Aboriginal players was founded on their family's value and strength and that fact provided him with his toughest times when he lost his sister Candace in a tragic train accident in 2001 he was desperate to return home to be with his parents and was shattered when he could not work a trade with West Coast or Fremantle.

His elite speed was recognised and he was named in the 2006 International Rules Series side to tour Ireland.

Bateman said a major career highlight was when he captained the Hawks in an indigenous round victory over West Coast at Launceston in 2007 when the Eagles were led by David Wirrpanda.