James Sicily has made a long-term commitment to the Hawks, signing on until the end of the 2022 season.

The Hawks’ number six has become one of the AFL’s most reliable rebounding defenders, ranking fourth in the league for intercept possessions and ninth for rebound 50s in 2019.

His impressive season resulted in Sicily’s highest-ever finish in a club best and fairest count, placing fourth at the Peter Crimmins Medal ceremony earlier this month.

Read: Young star signs on

At just 24 years old, GM-Football Graham Wright believes Sicily is shaping as a future leader of the club.

“Sis is such an important player for us,” Wright said.

“We know he’s got plenty of passion on field, and he’s learning to channel that into getting the best out of himself and his teammates.

“He can play on talls or smalls at either end of the ground, so he certainly adds versatility to our line up.



“We’re looking forward to watching his continued development as both a player and a leader, and are pleased to have him re-commit to the Hawks for the long-term.”

Sicily was selected by the club with Pick 56 in the 2013 draft.

After beginning his career as a forward, the 24-year-old was reborn as a defender in late 2017 and hasn’t taken a backwards step.

In 2019, Sicily was recognised with his first nomination in the extended All Australian squad.

The backman’s re-signing is the latest in a big week of contract extensions for the Hawks, with Mitchell Lewis and Jarman Impey signing on until the end of 2022 and 2023 respectively.