Impressive young Hawk and fan favourite Changkuoth Jiath has re-committed to the club, signing a new two-year extension.
The 22-year-old, who forged a break-out year in 2021, will remain at Hawthorn until at least the end of 2024.
The announcement follows recent back-to-back re-signings of fellow teammates Denver Grainger-Barras and Jack Scrimshaw, who also committed to Hawthorn for another two years.
National Recruiting & List Manager Mark McKenzie said the club was thrilled to have Jiath extend his tenure.
“CJ showed some really impressive form last year and has emerged as one of our most promising players,” McKenzie said.
“He took his progression to the next level in 2021, with his commitment to his craft really shining through.
“He possesses great athleticism and speed, while demonstrating a real willingness to take the game on.
“He also plays a massive role within the culture of our club, he is well-respected amongst his peers, the broader playing group and coaches.”
Since arriving at the club as a Next Generation Academy selection during the 2018 Rookie Draft, Jiath has already forged a strong reputation in the Hawks defence.
After managing five games in 2020, Jiath went on to further cement his place in the side, playing 16 games in 2021 before becoming injured late in the season.
He averaged 20.3 disposals, 5.8 marks and 2.4 intercept marks per game – which was the second-best at the Hawks in 2021.
His impressive form earned a spot in the 2021 AFL Players’ Association 22Under22 team, and he was named Hawthorn’s Most Promising Player last season.
McKenzie said he was pleased to lock away the talented trio of Jiath, Scrimshaw and Grainger-Barras.
“We’re delighted to have extended the contracts of these three exciting young players,” McKenzie said.
“We believe it delivers an extremely strong message of commitment to the club and our aspirations for success.
“They’re all high quality characters and as a club we’re excited, as I’m sure our members are too, to see what they can produce over the coming years.”
