Several Gatton Hawks Junior Rugby League sides are seeking more players and an under-17s coach to join in an excellent bonding and exciting sporting journey as their 2024 comp kicks off.
The girls’ teams are two rounds into their season and require additional players for their under 13s, 15s, and 17s sides, which compete in the Toowoomba Rugby League competition.
Gatton Hawks Girls coordinator Jo Cook said there had been great demand among the girls juniors this year after a few COVID-affected seasons.
“Lockyer High has a really good girls’ footy program there, and they had really good numbers this year,” she said.
“It just started off with one of them wanting to play in the 13s, and she brought some friends.
“We have girls coming from as far as Harlin, it’s crazy how wide the reach has been.”
Cook said the junior comps offer both active and mental strengthening benefits through the resilience project.
“Through the resilience project, the teams engage in a journaling process based on gratitude and mental health,” she said.
“We’re not here to win every game and win at all costs, we’re here to develop the girls both physically and mentally.”
Cook said league now offers incredible pathways for girls looking to continue up the ranks into the NRLW’s premiership.
“The succession of it all has really improved,” she said.
“You can start in under 7s and play with the boys until you get to 13s, then move up to the opens, and then play professionally.
“When I played, I never had the opportunity to play past 12, so it’s amazing the opportunity we just used to have to stop playing.”
Those interested in playing can visit the Gatton Hawks Facebook page or email presidentgjrl@hotmail.com
Several high profile players have come out of the Hawks system including Tara Reinke who debuted for the Canberra Raiders in the NRLW premiership in 2023.
The Gatton Hawks’ women’s open team went down in history in 2021 as the first premiers of the inaugural Toowoomba Rugby League competition.
