Hawthorn has signed their breakout utility Blake Hardwick to a five-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until the end of 2029.
The 27-year-old has been recognised as one of the most reliable players on the list since year two of his nine-year career thus far, where he played 19 matches as a lockdown defender under Alistair Clarkson back in 2017.
Under Sam Mitchell, he has found a second home up forward and had a profound impact when playing there, putting together one of the best individual performances of the season in a Round 10 loss to Port Adelaide - booting five goals from 23 touches and six marks.
One of the most consistent performers regardless of his role, Hardwick has placed top five in Hawthorn's best & fairest on four occasions, including two runner-up finishes.
His best season to date came in 2021, where he averaged 21 disposals, five marks and two tackles across his 20 games in a troubled season at the club.
Having just missed the glory days of the Hawthorn three-peat, being drafted only months after their third consecutive triumph, Hardwick will look to reap the rewards of his loyalty in future years as the club rises up the ranks once again in an exciting reign under mastermind coach Sam Mitchell.
A massive FIVE more years of Dimma in the brown and gold ๐คฉ
๐: https://t.co/RP8xC4L6NB pic.twitter.com/LBIGLG3TIa
— Hawthorn FC (@HawthornFC) June 13, 2024
โDimma has certainly cemented himself as one of our most reliable performers at our club, and we're thrilled that he's going to continue for several years to come,โ Hawthorn List Manager Mark McKenzie said post-signing.
โEver since being drafted, Dimma has been the ultimate club man, demonstrating a team-first and selfless attitude that has made him such a popular member among his peers.
โAs a defender, his ability to shut down his opponent whilst also generating offence through his intercepting and elite disposal is a rare commodity, which we rate highly.
โWhat's even more impressive recently has been his versatility to go forward when called upon and have a genuine influence, both on the scoreboard and bringing his teammates into the game.
โAt 27, Dimma complements our developing list perfectly as he approaches the prime of his career. He's an important part of what we are building at our football club, and we believe we will see his best years at Hawthorn in the coming seasons.โ
