Hawthorn fans have been gifted an early Christmas present with the news that young gun Jai Newcombe has signed a contract extension which will see him tied to the club until at least 2026.

The announcement caps off an extraordinary year for Newcombe who enjoyed a break-out season which culminated in a second-place finish in this year’s Peter Crimmins Medal.

The 21-year-old embraced the greater responsibility afforded to him by Sam Mitchell this year, averaging 22.6 disposals, 4.6 tackles, 4.1 inside 50s and 3.9 clearances.

Featuring in each of the Hawks’ 22 games in 2022, Newcombe’s campaign was recognised more broadly when he was awarded the AFL Coaches Association Best Young Player Award.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Newcombe will adopt the number three jumper in 2023, following a long line of club greats who have donned the number.

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Hawthorn National List & Recruiting Manager Mark McKenzie said Newcombe’s extension was reward for the immense amount of work the midfielder has put in to his game since joining the club via the 2021 mid-season draft.

“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,” McKenzie said.

“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.”