Hawthorn have locked away young gun Jai Newcombe to a new three-year extension, seeing the young bull's services tied to the brown and gold until the end of the 2026 season.
Newcombe's current contract was set to expire at the end of next year, however the 21-year-old and the club have opted to extend the deal for a further three years.
Newcombe has played 29 games since joining the Hawks midway through last year as a Mid-Season Draft recruit, with the hard-nosed onballer enjoying a stellar second season with the club in 2022.
The Poowong product managed a podium finish to narrowly trail James Sicily in Hawthorn's best and fairest count this year off the back of a campaign where he averaged 22.55 disposals, 4.27 marks, 4.09 inside 50s and 9.14 contested possessions from each of his 22 appearances.
Newcombe also claimed the AFL Coaches Association Best Young Player Award in 2022 as recognition for his prolific season.
“Jai has quickly built a reputation as an ultra-professional athlete who has a real hunger to get the best out of himself and his teammates,” Hawthorn National List & Recruiting Manager Mark McKenzie said of Newcombe after his signing.
“His appetite for the contest, his gut-running and his team-first attitude are all key attributes that really embody the direction that this younger group is striving for.
“It is quite remarkable when you consider he has only been a part of our AFL program for just 18 months which we think highlights the scope for development still in his game.
“Over the period of this contract, Jai will not only be an important player within this team, but he will also grow into an important leader.”
Newcombe has also been unveiled as Hawthorn's new No.3, following the likes of club greats Leigh Matthews and Jordan Lewis to pull on the famous number.