Harden will welcome back Patrick Smith (pictured far left) to the fold this weekend against Cootamundra. The former Hawk spent last season plying his trade in the Newcastle competition where he showed his athleticism by playing on the wing in the lower grades before turning out as a Prop at just over 90 kilos for his club in the higher grades. Previously nick-named the ‘Exterminator’ by the Times in his younger days, the Hawks will be hoping for Smith to play a strong role defensively and in attack alongside Drew Arabin (pictured far right). Emma James Hawkettes Captain (pictured middle right) will be hoping for a return to the winner’s circle after the Hawkettes went down at the Bateman’s Bay carnival. HMRL President and long-term Hawkettes coach and former Premiership winning Captain Coach Jason Pollard (pictured middle left) was at training last night preparing his charges for what will be a great afternoon of footy for the Peter Leitner Cup.
A big crowd will flock to McLean Oval on Saturday as the Harden Hawks kick off their 2023 George Tooke Shield campaign with a home game against rivals and competition heavyweights Cootamundra.
Nick Hall will lead them into battle for a second season, and Harden President Jason Pollard expects a very young Hawks outfit to guide the club into the future.
“We have got plenty of numbers in the men’s side and a lot of young blokes,” Pollard said.
“Hopefully, a lot more of the experienced players return tonight (Tuesday) at training and on the weekend, but we haven’t had to battle for numbers, and I reckon we will field a good side.”
The Bulldogs will enter the 2023 George Tooke Shield as one of the competition favourites, and Pollard expects a challenging opening-round game for his Hawks.
“We saw Coota play at the knockout, and they looked sharp and well-drilled, they will definitely be a challenge,” Pollard said.
“From Hally’s point of view, we will look to play a bit of footy, and hopefully, our quicker guys can catch them out.”
Harden and Cootamundra will play for the Peter Leitner Memorial Cup, and a good home crowd will welcome a big visiting Cootamundra supporter’s base. “It will be a good crowd and one of our better days,” Pollard said.
“Coota are big supporters, and there is no junior league, so it should be a perfect day.”
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