Burgoyne to play on in 2021, become Hawks advisor in 2022
Hawthorn veteran Shaun Burgoyne will play on in 2021, giving him the chance to reach 400 career games.
The Hawks announced on Saturday that Burgoyne had signed the deal to play next season, which also includes an agreement for him to continue as an advisor to the club's Indigenous programs beyond 2021.
Shaun Burgoyne will get the chance to play 400 games. Credit:Getty Images
It means 2021 will be his 20th season as an AFL player, and his 12th consecutive campaign as a Hawk.
He will complete advisory work alongside his playing commitments in 2021 and then transition to off-field work for the Hawks in 2022.
“At 37 years of age Shaun continues to set a great example for his teammates through his work ethic and professionalism,” said Hawks footy boss Graham Wright said.
“To still be able to compete at the elite level at his age is a true testament to his determination and competitiveness.
“While Shaun will pull on the boots again next year, both he and the club are aware that his AFL career is certainly in its twilight.
“With that in mind, we have worked together on an agreement that allows Shaun to continue playing the game he loves and contribute to the side, while also preparing him for a smooth transition into life after football.”
Hawks chief executive Justin Reeves said Burgoyne had shaped many of the club's fortunes off-field, and that he was excited about him doing the same off-field.
“Shaun is a highly regarded and knowledgeable leader within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and we are incredibly excited and humbled to be able to utilise his experience to help further develop the work we do within our Indigenous programs,” Reeves said.
Burgoyne has played 387 games for both Port Adelaide and the Hawks. He is a four-time premiership player and holds the record for most games played by an Indigenous Australian.