AFTER making a big impression in his debut season, Hawthorn rookie Kade Stewart has signed on for another year.
 
The 19-year-old joined the Hawks with pick 36 in last year’s rookie draft, was upgraded to the senior list ahead of Round 11 and has played three AFL matches.
 
It’s been a whirlwind year for the Katanning product, who says he’s excited to have recommitted to the club.
 
“It’s really exciting,” Stewart told hawthornfc.com.au.
 
“I was just focusing on this year and seeing what happened. Obviously as a rookie you get a one-year contract, so I was really focusing on letting my footy do the talking to see where that took me.
 
“It’s been really big (this year). Coming from the WAFL and then half-way through the year you’re on the senior list and playing your first game, it has come really quickly.
 
“I was really excited to have that opportunity and hopefully I can stay consistent until the end of the year.”
 
In his three senior matches so far, the midfielder/forward has averaged 12 disposals, four tackles and kicked three goals – including a pivotal final-term goal on debut against Melbourne.

He’s also been a consistent contributor at VFL level, kicking 11 goals in 10 matches and impressing with his attack on the contest and foot skills.
 
Hawthorn recruiting and list manager Graham Wright said Stewart had made a strong impression in his debut year.
 
“Kade’s come to the club as a rookie this season and he’s played three AFL games so far in his debut year, which is an outstanding effort,” Wright said.
 
“We’ll retain Kade next year, either as a rookie or potentially he may be upgraded to the senior list at the end of the season.
 
“He's an excellent tackler, hard at the contest and has excellent foot skills and decision making. We've been really happy with his first year at the club.”
 
Stewart said he wants to continue to repay the club’s faith in him.
 
“The club’s done everything for me and given me the opportunity to play senior football already,” he said.
 
“Hopefully I can pay it back to them – keep playing my role and playing consistent footy.”