Bailey MacDonald

Speedy Hawthorn defender re-signs with multi-year deal

The teenager has put pen to paper on a new deal ahead of his second season in the brown and gold.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Second-year Hawk Bailey Macdonald has re-signed with the club, adding a further two years to his Hawthorn tenure.

The teenager, who is entering his sophomore season at Waverley, was due to come off-contract at the cessation of this year prior to signing on the dotted line.

Currently sidelined with a leg injury, the speedy defender joins fellow backman Josh Weddle in recently extending his contract with the Hawks.

"With elite speed and line-breaking ability, we've seen some exciting flashes from Bailey in his short career so far and we're really excited about what he can provide our football club in the years ahead," Hawthorn list manager Mark McKenzie said.

"Prior to his recent leg injury, we saw rapid improvement from Bailey over the pre-season, and once fit again, no doubt he will be eager to make his mark at senior level when his next opportunity arises.

LAUNCESTON, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 13: Bailey Macdonald of the Hawks in action during the 2023 AFL Round 22 match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the Western Bulldogs at University of Tasmania Stadium on August 13, 2023 in Launceston, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"On top of Bailey being a genuine competitor who has a real willingness to put in the work, we're confident he has a bright future ahead with the Hawks."

Macdonald made his AFL debut in Round 12 last year against Port Adelaide, where he would record 10 disposals and two tackles. In his second and last appearance for 2023 Macdonald amassed 15 disposals, five marks and five rebound 50s in a win over the Western Bulldogs.

His recent re-signing leaves the likes of Denver Grainger-Barras, Changkuoth Jiath, Conor Nash, Jack Scrimshaw and Chad Wingard, among others, still without deals for 2025.

Published by
Mitch Keating