Blake Hardwick is set to play his 100th game when he takes to the MCG against Collingwood this Sunday.
Hardwick, or ‘Dimma’ as he is affectionately known by teammates and fans, joined the club via Pick 44 in the 2015 National Draft.
Since his debut in Round 19 in 2016, Hardwick has become one of Hawthorn’s most reliable and consistent defenders.
Footy Flashbacks: Our biggest win of all time
The 24-year-old has only missed three senior appearances across the last four seasons, including two this year after being forced on the sidelines with a hamstring injury.
Despite a slightly interrupted season, he remains one of Hawthorn’s most reliable ball users, running at 83.5 per cent efficiency and averaging a career-high 20.4 disposals in 2021.
His career-best performance came earlier this year against Richmond in Round 2 where he collected 31 disposals, including 27 kicks and four handballs.
Hardwick has also recorded 20-plus disposals on 10 or more occasions this year, being one of only six Hawks to reach such a tally.
He has also averaged a career-high 399.3 metres gained per game this season, a significant increase from his previous average of 254.3 metres.
Although having played as a forward for much of his junior career, Hardwick quickly found his place within Hawthorn’s defensive unit and hasn’t looked back since.
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.
Earlier this year, the young defender signed a new long-term deal that will see him in the brown and gold until at least the end of 2024.
