Blake Hardwick is the latest Hawk to put pen to paper, signing a new long-term deal that will see him in the brown and gold until at least the end of 2024.

Since debuting in Round 19 2016, Hardwick has become one of Hawthorn’s most reliable and durable defenders, having only missed one senior appearance across the last four seasons.

Head of Football Rob McCartney says the club is thrilled to have secured the backman’s services for a further three seasons.

“Blake is a talented player and a true competitor. He represents the club and its values so well every time he pulls on the jumper,” McCartney said.

“Whilst he has been a consistent performer for the brown and gold since making his debut we feel his best football is still well and truly ahead of him.

"We look forward to the part he will play in setting the standard for how our young developing group plays the game over the next few years.”

Hardwick, or ‘Dimma’ as he is now affectionately known by teammates and fans, joined the club via Pick 44 in the 2015.

Despite playing as a forward for much of his junior career, Hardwick quickly found his place within Hawthorn’s defensive unit and hasn’t looked back.

Arguably his best and breakout season came in 2018, when the defender’s consistency and efficiency with ball in hand led to his first podium finish in the Peter Crimmins Medal count – runner-up behind winner Tom Mitchell.

The now-24-year-old remains one of Hawthorn’s most reliable ball users, running at 82 percent efficiency and averaging a career-high 22 disposals in 2021.

Read: Reeves puts pen to paper