The versatile defender who became the league's longest-contracted player
In short: Hayden Young entered the AFL as a highly touted kick, but his journey has been defined by resilience. From overcoming recurring hamstring and ankle injuries to mastering the art of the defensive tag, the Fremantle star has transformed into a vital leader for the Dockers.
Drafted by the Fremantle Football Club as the 7th selection in the 2019 AFL draft, Young arrived with high expectations due to his exceptional kicking ability. His early career was marked by significant physical setbacks, including an ankle injury in 2020 and a recurring hamstring issue in 2021 that sidelined him for much of that year. Despite these hurdles, he secured a Rising Star nomination in 2021 following an impressive performance against Richmond.
By 2022, Young established himself as a mainstay in the lineup, appearing in 22 matches and recording multiple 31-disposal games against St Kilda, Richmond, and Hawthorn. His tactical intelligence became evident in 2023 when he was promoted to the leadership group. During that season, he proved his utility by successfully tagging elite midfielders, including Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield and Brownlow Medalist Lachie Neale, effectively neutralizing their influence on the game.
Young's rise continued through 2024, where he earned a spot in the initial 44-man All-Australian team and finished third in Fremantle's best and fairest count with 200 votes. His value to the club was cemented when he signed a six-year contract extension on December 18, 2024, making him the player with the longest remaining commitment in the league at that time. Even as he faced further soft-tissue injuries in 2026, his ability to deliver in high-stakes moments, such as his solo goal against Geelong, remains a cornerstone of the Fremantle side.
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