Damien Hardwick has signed a two-year extension to remain coach of Richmond.

Hardwick was already locked in until the end of the 2014 AFL season but with the extension will stay on through 2016.

“Having seen the impressive transformation our football team has made in the four years that Damien has been coach, the board had no hesitation in making the decision to extend his contract,” Richmond president Peggy O’Neal said in a club statement.

“We are convinced Damien has the right attributes to guide our playing group. He is totally driven in his quest to make Richmond the best team in the competition.

“The board and management will provide Damien every support to collectively give us the best chance of success.”

Hardwick took the reins in Richmond at the end of 2009 with the club second last on the ladder boasting just five wins for the season.

The Tigers have enjoyed something of a resurgence under the former Essendon and Port Adelaide premiership player.

The side broke a 12-year drought this season when they made the finals, eventually losing to Carlton.