CATS star Tom Hawkins has signed with Geelong again in a five-year deal likely to ensure he sees his footballing career out at Kardinia Park.
Premiership player Hawkins, 26, has played 157 games with the Cats and holds a pedigree that has his grandfather, his father and two uncles ties to the club as players too.
Selected by Geelong under the father-son rule at pick 41 in the 2006 national draft, Hawkins debuted for the club in round 2, 2007 kicking three goals.
Hawkins said the decision was one he discussed closely with his family, friends and partner.
“I’m very excited to be on the journey with the Geelong Football Club for the next five years,” Hawkins said.
“It’s the club I barracked for when I was younger, it’s the club that supported my junior development and it’s a club that my family has a rich history of involvement with.
“My family’s connection with the club was one of the major reasons why I have stayed here.
“I see the next five years as a big challenge, but I’m excited by the challenge.“
General manager of football Steve Hocking said Hawkins’ re-signing was a huge boost for the club’s future.
“We value Tom highly at our football club, he is an integral leader of the club both on-field and off the field,” Hocking said.
“Tom lives the values of our club and has many great years of football ahead of him. We look forward to him continuing his career in the blue and white hoops.”
Since his debut season in 2007, Hawkins has become a two-time premiership player (2009 and 2011), a 2012 club best and fairest winner and a member of the 2012 All-Australian team. He has booted 307 goals.
