"Hawthorn Football Club senior coach Alastair Clarkson has put pen to paper on a new three-year contract, as the club continues to re-establish itself as one of the AFL's premier clubs," a media statement by the club said.

"The contract was finalised behind closed doors today at Waverley Park, with club president, Jeff Kennett, happy to confirm the news."

"Alastair enjoys the full confidence of the Hawthorn Football Club board, management, coaching and playing group. His re-signing for another three years, until the end of 2011, is another sign of the stability and high morale at the club," Hawks president Jeff Kennett said.

"Four years ago we started a journey towards the club's 10th premiership," Clarkson said.

"The club has taken many bold decisions along the way and I look forward to continuing to play an important part in delivering this to the Hawthorn Football Club and its members.

"Whilst we have made a strong start to the 2008 season, both the playing group and coaching staff understand what is necessary to continue to build towards being the most competitive that we can be."