Rick Ladson

D .O.B:    
18 February 1984
Club:    
Hawthorn
Honours:  
2001 National Draft Pick No. 16
2003 AFL Debut
2008 Hawthorn Premiership

Rick played his junior football at Golden Square Football Club and is a hard-running player who has a very sharp left foot. He is also an extremely clever link player allowing him to be used in the midfield as well.

In 2005, Rick played 16 games playing as a  small forward and in the midfield providing him with valuable experience at senior level. Unfortunately due to injuries, his senior development was put on hold and he missed six games for that year including the last four.

In 2006 Rick enjoyed an injury free year, playing every match for the Hawks in a number of roles and fairing highly in the Best & Fairest count. He continued his fine form into the 2007 season, mainly playing as a dashing half-back flanker with a license to attack. He averaged 20 possessions per game, kicked 10 goals out of defence and finished in the top 10 in the Best & Fairest for the second year running.

In 2008 Ladson averaged 18 possessions per game and kicked a key last-quarter goal in their Grand Final victory over the Cats.

The Hawthorn Premiership defender played his first match of 2009 and his 100th for Hawthorn during round 13 after being stranded on 99 AFL games as a result of having surgery on his left knee at the start of the season.

Rick finished the 2010 season with 13 games, averaging 16 disposals per game. The highlight of his season were the 21 possessions he earned in round 1 against Melbourne, which included 15 kicks, 4 tackles and a goal. The Hawks now look forward to welcoming back his rebound running and composure for the 2011 season, as his running style and ability to hit targets has made him a valuable player for the Club. Rick has been one of the most consistent players since his senior debut and looks forward to maintaining this position in years to come.