Young Hawks Jonathan O’Rourke and Kurt Heatherley will remain at Waverley until at least the end of 2018, having signed a contract extension this week.

A former number two draft pick, O’Rourke spent two seasons with GWS before joining the Hawks at the end of 2015.

The speedy midfielder played nine games across his first two seasons at Hawthorn, before hamstring issues prevented him from playing a senior game in 2017. 

22-year-old Heatherley followed a slightly different path to an AFL list, with the New Zealander selected as a Category B International Rookie in 2013 after being spotted during an under 16s basketball tour two years prior.

Following an upgrade to the Hawks senior list and an AFL debut in 2016, Heatherley added a further four games to his tally this year. His best performance came against Collingwood in Round 15, when he managed 15 disposals and five rebound 50s – a far cry from the 16-year-old who didn’t even know Australian rules football had four posts at each end. 

Read: Hawthorn confirm three list changes

Earlier today, GM-Recruiting and List Management Graham Wright said:

“We are pleased to retain both Jonathan and Kurt. 

“Jonathan had an injury interrupted season, so we trust with a full pre-season under his belt he’ll be able to perform at his best next year.

“Kurt had a solid year at VFL level and also managed four senior games. We hope he can continue to develop his craft as a key backman next season.”