HAWTHORN has moved quickly to keep Jack Gunston from free agency, tying down the important forward to a three-year contract extension.

The triple premiership goalkicker was set to come out of contract at the end of next year, when he would have been eligible for free agency.

But the Hawks have secured Gunston to ensure the former Crow will be a key player until at least the end of 2022. 

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"Jack has become a vital part of our team since joining us at the end of the 2011 season and has had a fantastic home and away season this year," football manager Graham Wright said. 

"Jack's an important member of our leadership group and at just 26, we feel he has some of his best footy still ahead of him."

Gunston, who has kicked 46 goals for the Hawks this season while averaging 18 possessions, was one of four re-signings the club announced on Wednesday. 

Youngsters Kaiden Brand, Oliver Hanrahan and Conor Nash have all signed on with the Hawks, although the club did not specify the length of their deals.