AFL Trade News: Hawthorn Hawks lock down key swingman until 2029 with new five-year contract

Blake Hardwick has turned his back on free agency and signed a five-year contract extension, keeping him with the Hawthorn Hawks until at least the end of 2029.

Since his selection with pick #44 in the 2015 AFL Draft, Hardwick has worked his way into becoming one of the club's most trustworthy players. One of his significant achievements includes four Peter Crimmins Medal nominations, where he finished in the top five on each occasion.

Having missed only three games since Round 4 of 2017, Hardwick has been a reliable and ever-present figure for the Hawks, with head coach Sam Mitchell trusting the swingman with a critical role due to his abilities at both ends of the ground.

As well as being able to lock down some of the opposition's best small forwards, Hardwick has kicked 12 goals this season, including a Gather Round four-goal haul against the Collingwood Magpies and a five-goal display against Port Adelaide.

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Hawthorn Manager heaps praises on Hardwick following contract extension

AFL Rd 10 - Yartapuulti v Hawthorn

Hawthorn lists boss Mark McKenzie has heaped praises on Hardwick after the 27-year-old put pen to paper on a contract, saying that his signature is an important one to the club in its resurgence. McKenzie said:

"'Dimma'(Hardwick) 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.

Ever since being drafted, Dimma has been the ultimate clubman, demonstrating a team-first and selfless attitude that has made him such a popular member among his peers.

As 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.

What'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."

After winning five of their past six matches, Hawthorn Hawks have the top-eight places in their sight, and with several key players absent, they could use whatever extra hands are available to get them into position.

The Hawks take on Richmond in a mouth-watering lash at the On Saturday, with Tigers superstar Dustin Martin set to play his 300th AFL game.