Blake Hardwick is just another player on the list; his story is unique, marked by persistence, talent, and great loyalty to his club.
From early beginnings in Mitcham to a leading role at Hawthorn, Hardwick’s career reflects hard work and consistency that has made him a fan favorite and team leader.
Blake Hardwick’s Biography
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Blake Hardwick |
| Date of Birth | 5 February 1997 |
| Ag | 28 years |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Education | Mullauna College |
| Height | 183 cm (6′ 0″) |
| Weight | 78 kg (172 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2016 (AFL debut) |
| Net Worth | $3.5 million |
| Salary | $1.2 million |
| Career Earnings | See table below |
| Wife/Partner | Steph |
| Children | Zoe Maia Hardwick (b. 2025) |
| @blakehardwick_ |
Early Career
Blake Hardwick grew up in Mitcham, Victoria, showing his love for football from a young age. He attended Mullauna College and began to stand out in the local football scene, especially in the TAC Cup with Eastern Ranges.
During the 2015 season, he became the leading point kicker for the Eastern Ranges, putting up impressive goal numbers and earning the reputation as one of the top young scorers in the competition.
His strong performances caught the attention of AFL scouts, and Hawthorn selected him with their third pick at 44th overall in the 2015 national draft. This early momentum paved the way for his professional journey.
Professional Career
Hardwick made his AFL debut with Hawthorn in 2016 and quickly found his spot in the team’s defense. He impressed coaches and supporters with his tackling pressure, composure under attack, and efficient ball use.
In 2017, he received a Rising Star nomination, showcasing his consistency and resilience. Hardwick remained a mainstay in Hawthorn’s backline almost every season, rarely missing games and developing into a senior leader by the early 2020s.
By 2025, he had played close to 200 games, achieved multiple Peter Crimmins Medal nominations, and even became known for his ability to swing forward and kick crucial goals, adding an attacking dimension to his game.
Wife
Blake Hardwick has a long-term partner named Steph. The couple has been together through many seasons, and in March 2025, they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Zoe Maia Hardwick.
Hardwick often shares special family moments on social media, highlighting his proud and close connection with both Steph and their daughter. They make family life a priority alongside his football commitments.
Blake Hardwick’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Blake Hardwick’s net worth is estimated to be around $3.5 million. His wealth is built from football salaries, performance bonuses, and various endorsement deals.
Contract
Hardwick is signed to a lucrative five-year deal with Hawthorn, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2029 season.
The contract is structured with front-loaded payments: approximately $1.2 million in each of the first two years, then about $700,000 per year for the following three years.
This agreement reflects both the club’s trust in Hardwick and their strategic management of the salary cap.
Salary
Hardwick is earning an estimated $1.2 million, placing him among Hawthorn’s top earners.
His consistent performances, senior status, and flexibility on the field have earned him both job security and a generous annual salary, complemented by bonuses tied to games played and leadership roles.
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Salary |
|---|---|
| 2016 | $80,000 |
| 2017 | $100,000 |
| 2018 | $150,000 |
| 2019 | $180,000 |
| 2020 | $200,000 |
| 2021 | $250,000 |
| 2022 | $350,000 |
| 2023 | $500,000 |
| 2024 | $700,000 |
| 2025 | $1,200,000 |
Career Stats
| Year | Games | Goals | Behinds | Kicks | Handballs | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 8 | 1 | 3 |
| 2017 | 19 | 0 | 1 | 160 | 114 | 274 | 89 | 53 |
| 2018 | 24 | 3 | 1 | 219 | 175 | 394 | 107 | 57 |
| 2019 | 22 | 2 | 2 | 258 | 124 | 382 | 99 | 69 |
| 2020 | 16 | 1 | 0 | 139 | 67 | 206 | 45 | 21 |
| 2021 | 20 | 0 | 2 | 312 | 106 | 418 | 108 | 41 |
| 2022 | 22 | 0 | 0 | 267 | 99 | 366 | 114 | 42 |
| 2023 | 23 | 2 | 1 | 314 | 153 | 467 | 147 | 45 |
| 2024 | 25 | 13 | 5 | 250 | 124 | 374 | 118 | 63 |
| 2025 | 23 | 11 | 7 | 224 | 108 | 332 | 105 | 48 |
| Career | 195 | 32 | 20 | 2,149 | 1,073 | 3,222 | 933 | 442 |
FAQs
1. What position does Blake Hardwick play for Hawthorn?
He plays as a versatile defender and sometimes moves forward when needed. His strength, reading of the game, and precision make him one of Hawthorn’s most reliable backline players.
2. How many AFL games has Blake Hardwick played up to 2025?
He has played 195 career games for the Hawthorn Hawks, showcasing impressive durability and consistency throughout his career.
3. Who is Blake Hardwick’s partner and do they have children?
Blake Hardwick’s long-term partner is Steph, and they have a daughter named Zoe Maia Hardwick who was born in March 2025.
4. What is Blake Hardwick’s current contract with Hawthorn?
He is under a five-year contract extension signed, keeping him at Hawthorn until the end of the 2029 season, with an estimated value of $4.5 million over five years.
5. What are some major career highlights for Hardwick?
Hardwick’s highlights include earning an AFL Rising Star nomination, playing nearly every match since 2017, multiple top-five finishes in the Peter Crimmins Medal, celebrating his milestone 100th and 150th games, and helping his team win the McClelland Trophy.
