Defender Ryan Schoenmakers has decided to remain with AFL premiers Hawthorn despite a number of offers from other clubs.

Chris Fagan, GM of football operations, said on Wednesday night the Hawks were delighted to hold onto the key position player.

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“We’re very pleased Ryan has decided to continue to play on with Hawthorn,” Fagan said.

“We’re happy that he will remain a Hawk and we look forward to him making a significant contribution to the team next year.”

Schoenmakers played 15 games this season but was squeezed out of the side by September and played no part in Hawthorn’s finals campaign and title defence.

He faces even more competition for a backline spot after the Hawks signed free agent James Frawley.