[1] He debuted in Round 6, 2003, against the Carlton Football Club and continued to play six of 22 possible games in 2003.

Ladson played in every game of the 2008 season, culminating in being a part of Hawthorn's premiership winning side.

During the 2008 AFL Grand Final, he kicked the goal that was widely regarded as having sealed the game for the Hawks.

[3] He had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee after that season, delaying his return until Round 13.

He only played three games before he injured his right knee, which also required surgery and resulted in Ladson missing the remainder of the season.