AFL trade news: Hawthorn Hawks snatch Chad Wingard from Port Adelaide

Mick Stirling

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AFL trade news: Hawthorn Hawks snatch Chad Wingard from Port Adelaide image

Hawthorn has continued it’s stunning AFL trade period action by securing Port Adelaide star Chad Wingard early on Wednesday.

The Hawks got the deal done by trading it’s first pick at this year’s draft, currently 15, and impressive defender Ryan Burton.

Eventually Hawthorn traded out Burton, 15, 35 and a future fourth rounder to land Wingard and a future third round selection.

MORE: All the latest AFL trade news

Wingard’s relationship with Port seemed to sour post-season and he was given permission to look at his future options. 

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First of all just want to thank the port Adelaide football club for the opportunity to play at the highest level when they drafted me in 2011. Has been quite the journey and have enjoyed all the highs and lows with the boys. Thank you to the fans who have been there since day one and supported myself and my family through it all, massive thanks to chokito in Perth who always took my family in on there trips to WA. To all the volunteers, staff, coaches and players at port: just want to say a massive thank you and I appreciate everything you’ve done for myself and the club. My family have been through a lot over the last month and I appreciate all the support from fans and friends who helped us through this time. To the fans, I have always loved you guys, and wish nothing but the best for the boys in the future. But I’m also excited to start my new journey and taking on another challenge. Thank you for the memories port Adelaide I leave with the greatest memories and appreciation of everything you’ve done for me and my family :). Love you guys

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At first it looked like his future would be at the Western Bulldogs, but the Hawks swooped in what has been a very active trade period for the club.

Wingard is a two-time All Australian and 2013 Port best and fairest winner and appeared to be turning into an important part of the Power’s midfield after spending his early years as a creative small forward.

Burton was initially reluctant to be part of the trade, but came around to the idea of moving home to South Australia and underwent an examination by the Power’s medical team while holidaying in Las Vegas.

Mick Stirling