Hawks Coach Matt McLay has his charges ready to go, ahead of Saturday’s trials at Robert’s Park.
Grenfell has pulled out of the trial set down for Saturday at Robert’s Park against the Harden Hawks club.
The Hawks, as of late last night, have now confirmed that they will take on Woden Reserve grade.
Coach Matt McLay said “There are a lot of boys who have trained very hard and not missed a session, they will be rewarded with game time in the trial.” The Hawks will field up to 24 players for the match which will be a mixture of youth and experience and local as well as Canberra talent.
Harden Stalwart Luke Brown is as fit as ever and has been training well, however, most blokes end up in the Front Row at the end of their careers. Luke isn’t quite there yet and will understand the Editor’s ribbing of his longevity.
McLay has managed to secure some quality players for the club over the off season. “We have got players at all different level and backgrounds. Some have played First Grade in the Canberra comp, but I want to see how some of the younger guys will go and give them a chance to impress.”
The match will be broken in to two 35 minute halves and McLay said nearly everyone is available other than the soon to be married Chris Salway who played in the centres in 2016.
“Everything is coming together we have some exceptional centres as well as big Front Rowers who will bring a bit of size and aggression. Hamish Bradford has a lot to offer out of dummy half and Chris Fredericks has been training very hard.”
McLay said players to watch include Jonathan and Junior Pouono as well as Junior Lafaele. “They are exciting footy players and exciting to watch. Jamie Cooper will also add some aggression to the pack and do some damage around the ruck.” I think its going to be a great year, the Rams will have a young and fit side and it will be a good test, we are ready to go.”
McLay said the U18s will be coming up against Yass at 1:30 before First Grade kick off at 2:30.
Unfortunately the high flying Hawkettes have not been able to secure a trial at this stage.
Keep an eye of the Hawks Facebook page and the Twin Town Times page for updates leading up to Saturday.
Players and supporters are encouraged to head to the Carrington Hotel for refreshments after the trials.