AFL fans can’t help but admire James Worpel’s energy, determination, and skill on the field. Known as the ‘Bull from Bannockburn,’ he’s become a key figure at Hawthorn and continues to rise as one of the top midfielders in the league.
In this article, you’ll learn all about James Worpel’s net worth, career earnings, career highlights, stats, personal life, and more.
James Worpel’s Biography
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Worpel |
| Date of Birth | 24 January 1999 |
| Age | 26 |
| Education | Western Heights College, Geelong |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 186 cm (6’1”) |
| Weight | Around 85 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2017 (Drafted by Hawthorn, Pick 45) |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million |
| Salary | $700,000 – $750,000 per year |
| Career Earnings | Approx. $4.5 million |
| Instagram Profile | @jamesworpel |
| Contracted Until | End of 2025 |
Early Career
James Worpel grew up in Bannockburn near Geelong, surrounded by a large family of football-loving siblings. He quickly made a name for himself as a tough competitor with a natural drive for winning hard ball situations.
He attended Western Heights College in Geelong and spent several years developing his skills with the Geelong Falcons in the TAC Cup. By 2017, James was already recognized as a leader, captaining his club to a premiership and representing Victoria Country at the Under 18 Championships.
His inside midfield skills and tenacity made him a standout despite minor criticism regarding his kicking, which didn’t deter clubs from seeing his leadership potential.
Professional Career
James joined Hawthorn as the 45th pick in the 2017 AFL draft and debuted in 2018. He faced early challenges but soon became a regular in Hawthorn’s midfield, earning a Rising Star nomination in his first season.
His breakout year was 2019, playing every game, breaking the under-20 disposals record, and winning the Peter Crimmins Medal as Hawthorn’s best and fairest—the youngest winner since 1971.
Injuries sidelined him briefly, but he bounced back each season, becoming a leader in Hawthorn’s engine room. By 2025, he’s established himself as one of the league’s strongest midfielders, sought after by several clubs for his consistency and leadership.
James Worpel’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, James Worpel’s net worth stands at an estimated $1.5 million. He’s built his wealth through AFL salaries, performance bonuses, and endorsement deals.
Contract
Worpel signed a pivotal contract extension with Hawthorn in recent years, keeping him with the club through the end of 2025. He’s currently negotiating potential new deals, with rival AFL teams interested.
However, Hawthorn views him as a central piece in their rebuild and leadership strategy, and he’s likely to remain a Hawk barring a major offer elsewhere.
Salary
As one of Hawthorn’s key midfielders, Worpel earns between $700,000 and $750,000 per season. This salary reflects his status as a consistent performer and former best-and-fairest winner, and is in line with offers made by other clubs seeking his signature.
Career Earnings
| Year | Estimated Earnings (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 2018 | $150,000 |
| 2019 | $250,000 |
| 2020 | $350,000 |
| 2021 | $500,000 |
| 2022 | $700,000 |
| 2023 | $850,000 |
| 2024 | $1,050,000 |
| 2025 | $700,000 |
| Total | $4,550,000 |
Career Stats
| Season | Team | Games | Goals | Behinds | Kicks | Handballs | Disposals | Marks | Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Hawthorn | 11 | 5 | 5 | 95 | 98 | 193 | 23 | 43 |
| 2019 | Hawthorn | 22 | 9 | 8 | 309 | 275 | 584 | 72 | 107 |
| 2020 | Hawthorn | 15 | 2 | 7 | 167 | 120 | 287 | 39 | 81 |
| 2021 | Hawthorn | 20 | 10 | 8 | 232 | 194 | 426 | 54 | 82 |
| 2022 | Hawthorn | 11 | 3 | 2 | 86 | 83 | 169 | 20 | 24 |
| 2023 | Hawthorn | 23 | 10 | 9 | 286 | 314 | 600 | 52 | 92 |
| 2024 | Hawthorn | 25 | 6 | 11 | 280 | 265 | 545 | 52 | 110 |
| 2025 | Hawthorn | 17 | 4 | 7 | 167 | 174 | 341 | 28 | 89 |
| Total | 144 | 49 | 57 | 1622 | 1523 | 3145 | 340 | 627 |
FAQs
1. What is James Worpel’s current contract situation?
James Worpel’s contract with Hawthorn runs through the end of the 2025 season. He has received offers from rival clubs, but Hawthorn continues to prioritize him as a core midfielder in their squad.
2. How much does James Worpel earn per season in the AFL?
James Worpel’s annual salary for 2025 is reportedly between $700,000 and $750,000, which matches his performance, reputation, and value as a consistent top-level midfielder at Hawthorn.
3. Which awards has James Worpel won in his AFL career?
Worpel won the Peter Crimmins Medal as Hawthorn’s best and fairest. This marked him as the youngest winner of the award since 1971, cementing his rapid rise in the AFL.
4. Has James Worpel played for any AFL club besides Hawthorn?
James Worpel has played his entire AFL career at Hawthorn since being drafted with Pick 45. He remains a one-club player through the 2025 season.
5. What is known about James Worpel’s family and relationships?
Worpel keeps his family and relationship status private and focuses on football and personal development.
