Exciting youngster Massimo D’Ambrosio has joined Hawthorn after the club secured a trade with Essendon for the versatile defender on the final day of the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period. 
 
The 20-year-old joins the Hawks in exchange for a 2023 third-round draft selection (Pick 61) and a future fourth-round pick.

D’Ambrosio burst onto the scene for the Bombers in his first season and a half, playing a number of eye-catching games after being recruited via the 2022 mid-season draft.

From half-back to half-forward, the left-footer's run and carry has been used in several different roles for Essendon across his 16 games to date.
  
In just his third AFL appearance, D’Ambrosio became the first mid-season recruit to receive a Rising Star nomination in the same year he was drafted.  
 
Hawthorn National List and Recruiting Manager Mark McKenzie said the club was thrilled to welcome D’Ambrosio to the brown and gold.  
 
“Armed with a penetrating left boot, we believe Massimo can become a dangerous player that can be used in a number of roles for us going forward,” McKenzie said. 

“He reads the play incredibly well and has a great natural instinct, which we see as great weapons of his. 
 
“At just 20 years of age, Massimo fits our list profile perfectly and we're really excited about what he can deliver for our club in the future.”