DAMIEN Hardwick is set to become Richmond's longest-serving coach after signing a contract extension through to the end of 2021.

Chief executive Brendon Gale announced the news to the playing group on Tuesday, with Hardwick rewarded for helping deliver the club's first premiership in 37 years. 

The new contract will extend Hardwick's tenure at Punt Road Oval to 12 years, with the 45-year-old set to overtake club greats Tommy Hafey and Jack Dyer, who led the Tigers for 11 and nine seasons respectively.    

"Damien has helped our football club to deliver the ultimate success, and we’re excited to continue our journey with him leading the team," president Peggy O’Neal said.

"Our club has built a strong and united culture, and Damien has been critical to that. He has an incredible connection to his players, is a person of great character and a wonderful coach.  

"Damien is constantly looking at ways to improve himself, and get the best out of his players and coaching group, and we wish them all the best for the upcoming AFL season."

Hardwick's reappointment comes after a stunning career revival, having finished a nightmare 2016 season under pressure to retain his position.

The coach adjusted his approach in the off-season and led a cultural change at Punt Road Oval that was seen as crucial in the club's premiership success.

"I'm incredibly honoured to continue coaching the Richmond Football Club, and have the support of Peggy, Brendon and the board," Hardwick said.

"It’s a collective effort that helps deliver success, and I’m fortunate at Richmond to have a great group of players, coaches and staff all working together towards our goal. 

"It’s been an exciting journey thus far at Richmond, and both myself, the coaches and players are eager for the challenge that awaits this season."

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Hardwick, who was named the AFL Coaches Association's coach of the year in 2017, joins Port Adelaide's Ken Hinkley and Adelaide's Don Pyke in being locked away until the end of the 2021 season. 

Alan Richardson (St Kilda), Ross Lyon (Fremantle), Leon Cameron (GWS), John Longmire (Sydney), Brad Scott (North Melbourne) and Luke Beveridge (Western Bulldogs) are locked away until the end of 2020. 

New Gold Coast coach Stuart Dew also signed an initial three-year deal through to 2020. 

Chris Fagan (Brisbane Lions), Nathan Buckley (Collingwood), Chris Scott (Geelong), Alastair Clarkson (Hawthorn), Simon Goodwin (Melbourne), and Adam Simpson (West Coast) have contracts until the end of 2019.

Premiership coach John Worsfold (Essendon) is the only coach remaining out of contract this season.

Carlton coach Brendon Bolton is a permanent member of staff at the club, with no contractual end date but protection for both the coach and the Blues should they part ways.