Hawthorn veteran Shaun Burgoyne is set for a 20th season in the league, signing a new deal with the club that will see him move into a part-time Indigenous advisory role in 2021, per hawthornfc.com.au.

The 37-year-old will play his final season with the hawks next year whilst taking on a role with the club that will assist with "the development and implementation of its Indigenous programs which focus on employment, education and health outcomes."

Burgoyne will feature both on and off the field for the Hawks in 2021, with the vision that the class veteran will remain with the club following his retirement.

General Manager of Football Graham Wright said the new deal was one of the best possible outcomes for both Burgoyne and the club.

“At 37 years of age Shaun continues to set a great example for his teammates through his work ethic and professionalism,” said Wright.

“To still be able to compete at the elite level at his age is a true testament to his determination and competitiveness.

“While Shaun will pull on the boots again next year, both he and the club are aware that his AFL career is certainly in its twilight.

“With that in mind, we have worked together on an agreement that allows Shaun to continue playing the game he loves and contribute to the side, while also preparing him for a smooth transition into life after football.” 

Hawks CEO Justin Reeves said the deal will add to the honourable legacy Burgoyne has built with the club.

“Shaun is a highly regarded and knowledgeable leader within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and we are incredibly excited and humbled to be able to utilise his experience to help further develop the work we do within our Indigenous programs,” said Reeves.

“The role Shaun has played in shaping our club on-field has been remarkable. The exciting part about this new deal is the opportunity it creates for Shaun to have an equally meaningful impact on our club’s contribution off the field.”

Burgoyne has played 387 games in the AFL with Port Adelaide and Hawthorn, winning four premierships.