Hawthorn has locked away Blake Hardwick on a five-year contract extension, keeping the versatile Hawk in the brown and gold until 2029.

The 27-year-old, who is in his ninth season at the club, has established himself as one of Hawthorn’s most reliable assets since he was selected with Pick 44 in the 2015 national draft.

Having rose to prominence as a dangerous medium-sized defender across his career, Hardwick’s versatility to impact as an agile and accurate forward has been among the shining lights for the Hawks in the 2024.

From his 13 matches this year, the swingman has averaged a healthy 13.5 disposals per game, going at an elite 77.1% efficiency, as well as 4.2 marks.

His 12 goals this season have more than doubled his career tally prior to 2024, which includes his bag of five in Round 7, as well as a four-goal haul in Round 5.

Across his 160 games in the brown and gold, Hardwick is ranked elite in average disposals (16.8), kicks (11.2) and marks (4.8), highlighting his ultra consistency.

Such is Hardwick’s consistency, he has finished in the top-five of the Peter Crimmins Medal four times, including a pair of runner-up finishes in 2018 and 2021.

Hardwick is also among the Hawks’ most durable performers, missing just three games since Round 4 in 2017, to play 159 of a possible 162 games.

Hawthorn National Recruiting and List Manager Mark McKenzie said Hardwick’s signature was an important one as the club continues its resurgence.

“Dimma 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,” McKenzie said.

“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.

“At 27, Dimma complements our developing list perfectly as he approaches the prime of his career. He’s an important part of what we are building at our football club, and we believe we will see his best years at Hawthorn in the coming seasons.”