Irishman Conor Nash has turned his back on free agency to re-sign with Hawthorn for a further five years.
Nash's current contract was due to expire at the end of this season, and as an unrestricted free agent he had the option of joining a rival club of his choice.
But with Hawthorn emerging as a finals contender this year and Nash enjoying career-best form over the past two seasons, the 26-year-old decided to re-sign with the Hawks until the end of 2029.
Nash finished third in Hawthorn's best-and-fairest count last year.
The 198cm midfielder has played every game this season, averaging 19.4 disposals and 5.2 clearances, as well as laying more tackles than any of his Hawthorn teammates (107).
Nash arrived at Hawthorn at the end of 2016 as a Category B international rookie.
"Having set our sights on Conor as a talented 15-year-old, with the support of his family, he has made some enormous sacrifices moving from Ireland as an 18-year-old kid to pursue an AFL career," Hawthorn recruiting and list manager Mark McKenzie said in a statement.
"Building upon his junior success in Gaelic football and rugby, Conor's character and work ethic have contributed immensely to his development into one of the most combative midfielders in the competition.
"In the past few seasons, Conor has earned universal respect from his teammates for his toughness and physicality around the contest, as well as his willingness to perform selfless shut-down roles for the betterment of the team.
"Having only turned 26 earlier this this week, we absolutely see Conor playing a big part in our future success as a football club."
Hawthorn started the year with five straight losses.
But 10 wins from their past 12 matches have catapulted the Hawks to within percentage of eighth spot, giving them a good chance to play finals for the first time since 2018.
Hawthorn will be back in action on Sunday when they face GWS in Canberra.
