Hawthorn identified an opportunity months in advance when Essendon delayed extending its rookies’ contracts until the end of the season. The Hawks proposed a two-year deal and a spot on their senior list. By the time the Bombers countered with a one-year offer, later extended to two years, D’Ambrosio had set his sights on Waverley Park.
D’Ambrosio could have joined Hawthorn as a delisted free agent under a clause for second-year rookies rejecting a third-year offer, but it didn’t come to that. Essendon eventually relented, and the Hawks acquired D’Ambrosio for pick No. 61 and a future fourth-round pick. He has since proven to be a major steal from last year’s trade period.
After playing eight games for Essendon, D’Ambrosio has thrived at Waverley Park, appearing in 13 of the first 14 games of 2024. Rated as the No. 2 wingman in the AFL by Champion Data, he trails only Sydney’s Errol Gulden and surpasses stars like Josh Daicos.
Despite being overlooked in his draft year due to stress fractures in his back, D’Ambrosio’s underage career hinted at his potential. Initially recruited by Essendon to play half-back, he has excelled on the wing under Sam Mitchell at Hawthorn, contributing to the team’s mid-season turnaround from 0-5 to 7-7.
Hawthorn ranks No. 5 in the AFL for marks inside 50 from D’Ambrosio’s entries, a key factor in his recognition as the second most improved player in 2024, behind Isaac Heeney and ahead of players like Charlie Comben and Tom Powell.
Despite missing out on other high-profile targets, Hawthorn has emerged as one of the big winners from last year’s trade period, thanks in large part to D’Ambrosio’s outstanding performance.
