HAWTHORN has extended the contract of star ruckman Ben McEvoy until the end of 2020.

The new one-year deal comes as the in-form big man is producing the best football of his 193-game career, with McEvoy averaging career-highs in disposals (15.2), hitouts (32.3) and clearances (2.5).

McEvoy was due to come out of contract at the end of 2019, but football manager Graham Wright said the ruckman was an important signing.

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"We're delighted to have Ben sign on for the 2020 season," Wright told the club's website.

He has become such an important and consistent player for us, and he seems to be only getting better with age - Graham Wright

"He's also a great role model to his teammates – his leadership both on and off the field is held in high regard."

McEvoy was voted into the Hawks' leadership group in 2019 and is said to be having a key influence on his teammates.

The 29-year-old has played 102 games for the Hawks after 91 matches for St Kilda between 2008 and 2013.