The Harden Hawks First Grade side has hit the ground running in the 2026 Blumers Lawyers George Tooke Shield competition, establishing themselves as early frontrunners in the Canberra Region Rugby League. After six rounds, the Hawks sit atop the ladder with an impressive record of 6 wins from 6 games, boasting 12 competition points and a commanding points differential.
Their season has been built on a blend of clinical attacking execution and rock-solid defence. Key results include high-scoring victories such as a 50+ point win in Round 1 against Googong, strong performances in Round 2, a gritty come-from-behind 24-12 win over Crookwell Green Devils in Round 5, and a hard-fought 22-16 victory over North Canberra Bears in Round 6 at McLean Oval.
Season Statistics (after 6 rounds):
• Played: 6
• Wins: 6
• Points For: 239
• Points Against: 52
• Points Differential: +187
• Average Winning
Margin: Approximately 31 points per game, reflecting their ability to pull away from opponents once momentum shifts.
Standout performer Riley Manwaring has been in sensational form, leading the try-scoring charts with 12 tries in just six games — a remarkable achievement that has seen him earn multiple player-of-the-week honours. His pace, vision, and finishing have terrorised opposition defences.
Supporting cast members like Jaydo Cutting have also contributed significantly on the try sheet. Goal-kicking accuracy has been solid, helping convert their attacking dominance into a healthy points tally.
The Hawks’ forward pack has laid a strong platform, while their backline — marshalled by experienced players — has capitalised with slick phase play and clinical finishing. Defensively, they have been stingy, conceding just 52 points across six matches, a marked improvement that speaks to better structure and discipline compared to previous campaigns.
Historically, Harden have been competitive in the George Tooke Shield, claiming premierships in recent memory (including 2017) and reaching grand finals as recently as 2025. Over the last five years, they have typically finished in the top four, with occasional minor premiership contention but some inconsistency in finals. The 2026 season shows clear recent improvements in squad depth, fitness, and tactical execution under the coaching staff. With this trajectory, the Hawks are strong favourites to make the top 4 (85-90% likelihood) and are well-positioned for a minor premiership.
Their chances of going all the way as premiers are estimated at 40-50%, depending on how they handle the business end of the season and any injury concerns. A ladder finish of 1st or 2nd appears most probable if they maintain this form.
Coach and club officials will be pleased with the balance shown so far, but tougher tests against sides like Boorowa Rovers and Bungendore Tigers lie ahead. Home crowds at McLean Oval have been vocal, providing a significant advantage.
The Hawkettes – League Tag Powerhouse Maintains Dominance
Parallel to the men’s success, the Harden Hawkettes in the George Tooke Shield Ladies League Tag competition continue their reign as one of the competition’s benchmark teams. Multiple-time premiers with a rich history in the grade, the Hawkettes have started 2026 with consistency and firepower that marks them as clear title contenders once again.
2026 Results So Far (after Round 6):
• Round 1: 50–6 win vs Googong Goannas
• Round 2: 48–0 win vs Snowy River Bears
• Round 3: 16–16 draw vs Bungendore Tigerettes
• Round 4: 56–4 win vs UC Stars
• Round 5: 16–6 win vs Crookwell She Devils
• Round 6: 44–22 win vs North Canberra Bears
The Hawkettes sit near the top of the League Tag ladder, with a formidable points differential driven by high-scoring wins and a gritty defensive effort in tighter matches. Cumulative Points For: well over 230; Points Against: under 60. Average Winning Margin in their victories: around 25–30 points, showcasing their ability to dominate and control games.
Their attacking style, built on speed, support play, and sharp spine work, has overwhelmed many opponents. Players like Clare Smith have earned recognition for standout performances, while the team’s collective try-scoring depth has been impressive. Goal-kicking (conversions) has been highly reliable, often near-perfect in blowout wins, adding crucial extras. Defensively, they absorb pressure well before launching lethal counter-attacks.
Over the last ten years, the Hawkettes have been perennial premiership favourites, securing multiple titles (including back-to-back in 2018-19 and further successes through 2025). Their record shows consistent top-two ladder finishes and strong finals performances with minimal slides in form. Some of their players have been there over a decade and it is this core and the addition of young stars coming through which highlights a production line of skill and core of experience.
The 2026 campaign reflects continued excellence and added depth, with no signs of regression. Chances of making the top 4: virtually certain (95%+). Premiership chances: 55-65%, given their pedigree, but more like 80%, they know how to win the big ones. Experience in big games, and current dominance is high. They are on track to finish 1st or 2nd and mount another serious title tilt.
The synergy between the men’s and women’s programs at Harden-Murrumburrah RLFC strengthens the entire club. Shared facilities, community support, and a thriving junior pathway benefit both squads. Unfortunately the club and the competition has no pathway due to the size of the town and competition for 16 and 18s.
Shared Momentum for a Milestone Year
Both the Harden Hawks and Hawkettes embody the fighting spirit of the Twin Towns. Their strong starts in 2026 have local supporters dreaming of success across both grades. For the men, sustaining defensive stinginess while managing key personnel will be vital. For the women, maintaining their high standards through the finals will test their championship mettle.
As the season progresses toward the business end, the Hawks’ dual campaigns provide plenty of excitement for fans. With improved depth, clinical finishing, and community backing, a strong finals showing — and potentially silverware — is well within reach for both sides.
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