HAWTHORN captain Sam Mitchell put his signature on paper on Tuesday, pledging his commitment to the club on the eve of the 2008 season.

The star midfielder has extended his contract with the club which will see him in a brown and gold jumper to at least 2010.

Mitchell said while his contract didn’t expire until the end of the season, he had no hesitation re-committing to the Hawks.

“It’s an exciting time to be at the club, we’ve set ourselves a path and I’m glad to have my place on the journey secured for the next couple of years,” he said.

“There is a really good atmosphere around Hawthorn at the moment, the club played finals last year and as a team we are looking forward to building on that to secure our 10th premiership.”

Senior coach Alastair Clarkson said the re-signing of Mitchell sent a positive message to the rest of the playing group.

“We have gathered together over the last three drafts a very talented group and Sam has set a great precedent for our young kids.

“We took the decision several years ago to rebuild our club and Sam, along with the leadership group, represents the future of this proud club. He is a strong leader, has enormous drive and is respected by his peers for his commitment to the team,” Clarkson said.

Mitchell is Hawthorn’s second major re-signing this year after Lance Franklin signed a three-year contract extension in January, securing his services until 2010.

In announcing his contract extension, Mitchell encouraged Hawthorn supporters to join him, with the club on target to set a new membership record of 35,000 members after reaching 30,000 on Tuesday.