Hawthorn captain James Sicily has been recognised for his outstanding season, receiving his maiden All Australian selection. 

After being named in the All Australian extended squad on two occasions in 2019 and 2022, the star defender has now broken through to the final team of 22 for the first time in his 10-year career.

The 28-year-old has led from the front throughout his first year as skipper, solidifying himself as one of the AFL’s best defenders, ranking second in the league for intercept possessions (9.4 per game) and sixth for rebound 50s (6.1 per game) in 2023.

Across his 19 matches this season, Sicily has also averaged 26.4 disposals, at an impressive 83.6 per cent efficiency, along with 9.9 marks, 3.5 intercept marks and 3.8 spoils.

Hawthorn General Manager of Football Rob McCartney said it was pleasing to see Sicily receive wider recognition for his impact on the game. 

“James has had an outstanding season and thoroughly deserves his first All Australian blazer,” McCartney said.

“His ability to influence games through being able to win critical contests then ignite our offensive ball movement through precision foot skills has never been stronger.

“Throughout James’ ten seasons in the brown and gold he has grown significantly both on and off the field.

“He is a young man who is driven and determined and continues to search for how he can be better. This thirst for growth has allowed him to take his game to new heights season after season.

"He was deservedly awarded the Peter Crimmins Medal last year and it's now great to see him add an All Australian selection to his accomplishments. We are extremely proud of our captain."

Taken with Pick 56 in the 2013 national draft, Sicily has since chalked up 134 games in the brown and gold, and just last year put pen to paper on a contract extension tying him to the club until at least the end of 2027.