Hawthorn forward Jarryd Roughead has opted against becoming a free agent at the end of next season, instead signing a two-year extension with the reigning premiers.
The goal-kicker and part-time ruckman would have been a top target for a number of clubs desperate for a quality forward option had he hit the open market, but chose loyalty and a chance a fourth flag over a lucrative offer to make a new home elsewhere.
“It’s safe to say that at 31, when this deal does expire, it might be hard for free agency,” Roughead told hawthornfc.com.au.
“To be able to lock it away now and say that I’m here until the end of 2018 when I’m 31 is a very good thing for myself and hopefully for the footy club as well.
“It was a good chance for me to get it out of the way now and not have to worry when I turn 28 that I’m a free agent and all the publicity that comes with it.”
Since being selected second overall in the 2004 AFL Draft, the 193cm Roughead has booted 441 goals, including bags of 72 and 75 in Hawthorn’s back-to-back 2013 and 2014 premiership-winning seasons. He also kicked 75 majors playing second fiddle to Lance Franklin during 2008 when the Hawks upset Geelong in the Grand Final to help propel the club to its first flag of the modern era.
“There are about six of us left from when I first started so to see the bonds and mate ship form over the 10 years has been once thing that you look forward to every day when you come here,” he said.
“To be able to muck around with blokes and seeing the smiles on the faces as you walk in rather that it just be a burden I suppose. It’s more of a lifestyle than a job.
“You come here every day and enjoy the fact you’re around mates and winning flags, which also helps.”
Roughead became the key forward target last season after Franklin bolted for Sydney ahead of the 2014 season and responded by averaging 16 possessions, four marks and three goals a game.
Photo: Scott Barbour/Getty Images.
