EXCITING youngster Daniel Howe has pledged his commitment to Hawthorn, re-signing until the end of 2018.
The Hawks’ first selection at last year’s NAB AFL Draft (pick 31), Howe, who was contracted until the end of 2016, has extended his commitment to the club by a further two years.
The 19-year-old said re-signing with Hawthorn was a simple decision.
“It’s very exciting,” Howe told hawthornfc.com.au today.
“It’s a great place and there were no hesitations in signing.
“The boys obviously won the premiership last year, and hopefully I can be a part of the success moving forward.”
The Murray Bushrangers product made his AFL debut in Round 9, 2015 against Gold Coast Suns and featured in four senior matches during the season.
Capable of playing in defence and through the midfield, Howe enjoyed his best senior game in Round 23, collecting 21 disposals against Carlton.
He was also a strong contributor at VFL level for Hawthorn’s affiliate, Box Hill Hawks, featuring in the side’s best players in five of his 14 appearances.
Howe, who returned to pre-season training alongside his fellow first to fourth year teammates today, said he was hoping to build on his debut year next season.
“It was my aim to debut, so I ticked that off and hopefully (there’s) bigger and better things this coming season,” he said.
Hawthorn Recruiting and List Manager Graham Wright said the Hawks were rapt to extend Howe’s contract.
“We’re really pleased that Daniel has signed on for another two years,” Wright said.
“We thought he had an excellent first season.
“He got a taste of AFL football, playing four games, and also played some really good football at VFL level.
“He’s versatile, a good size and able to play in the midfield and across half back, and he’s also a high quality person who has already made an impact at our club in a short period of time.”
