JAMES Worpel's status as a star on the rise has been confirmed, winning Hawthorn's Peter Crimmins Medal as the club's best and fairest at just 20 years old.

In just Worpel's second AFL season, the midfielder averaged 26.5 disposals and 6.3 clearances from his 22 games to be crowned the Hawks' youngest best and fairest since legend Leigh Matthews in 1971.

Worpel polled 115 votes to win from revitalised winger Ricky Henderson (104) and fellow young star Jaeger O'Meara (103). 

Hard-nosed defenders James Sicily (100) and Blake Hardwick (90) rounded out the top five.

Ricky Henderson enjoyed one of his best years. Picture: AFL Photos

Hawthorn's match committee voted after each home and away season game, and players could receive a maximum of 16 votes in a match.

"Tonight's Peter Crimmins Medal highlights the exceptional level of young talent rising through the ranks at Hawthorn," club CEO Justin Reeves said. 

"With five of our top six vote-getters aged 25 or under, the future for our club looks bright and it's clear the next generation of Hawthorn players are emerging and steering us towards our next piece of silverware."

It's been a rapid rise up the ranks for Worpel, who was drafted by the Hawks with pick No.45 in the 2017 NAB AFL Draft.

Jarman Impey had a strong second year at Hawthorn until tearing his ACL in round 18, and won the club's most consistent award.

Forward Ollie Hanrahan was named best first-year player, kicking seven goals from his nine AFL games, Mitch Lewis was presented with the club's most promising player, while big man Jonathon Ceglar was awarded best clubman.

Mitch Lewis had a breakout season up forward. Picture: AFL Photos

Peter Crimmins Medal Top 10

1. James Worpel (115 votes)
2. Ricky Henderson (104)
3. Jaeger O’Meara (103)
4. James Sicily (100)
5. Blake Hardwick (90)
6. Jarman Impey (85)
7. Liam Shiels (78)
8. Ben McEvoy (75)
9. Luke Breust (73)
10. Ben Stratton (63)