2024: A Remarkable Year for the Springfield Lakes Hawks Rugby Club

As 2024 has drawn to a close, we reflect on an extraordinary year filled with growth, achievements, and unwavering community support.

A New Chapter at Silver Jubilee Park

One of our most significant milestones was relocating from Springfield Lakes to our new home at Silver Jubilee Park in Spring Mountain. This move symbolizes a fresh chapter for our club, providing a dedicated space for our community to grow and thrive.

Exciting Developments and Achievements

The Little Hawks Program

This year, we proudly launched The Little Hawks, introducing 3–5-year-olds to rugby in a fun and supportive environment. Watching these young players embrace the sport has been a highlight for our club.

Senior Men’s Triumphs

Our senior men’s team made a proud return to the field, reaching the grand final. Although they narrowly fell to a strong Toowong side, their resilience and teamwork were a source of inspiration.

Under-12 Championship Victory

The Under-12 team, featuring many first-year players, delivered an exceptional performance, securing the division title with a decisive win over Albany Creek. This marked our first banner since COVID—a proud and historic moment for the club.

Community and Representation

This year, we welcomed many new members and saw parents step into crucial roles as coaches, mentors, and volunteers. Their dedication has created an environment where players thrive and enjoy the game.

On larger stages, our players showcased their talents with strong performances at the BJRU tournaments, the Pacific Youth Festival, and Queensland Subbies. These achievements reflected the Hawks’ determination, sportsmanship, and exceptional talent.

Rugby Club of the Year

A crowning achievement in 2024 was being named Rugby Club of the Year in Queensland by Rugby Australia, Queensland Rugby Union, and Cadbury. This prestigious award is a testament to the passion and hard work of our entire Hawks community.

Club Break-Up Celebration

We closed the year with a festive club break-up celebration. Sponsors, families, and players enjoyed a wonderful day under the sun, complete with great food, camaraderie, and the much-anticipated award presentations.

Team Awards

Under 6s

MVP: Eizen Sutton

Best Attacker: LeQhaeus Iakopo

Best Defender: Ezra Lemalu

Most Improved: Ezekiel Sadlier

Under 7s

MVP: Wharehuia Raiden McKenzie

Best Attacker: Sonni King Pakai

Best Defender: Asher Forwood

Most Improved: Malakai Maxwell-Whiffin

Under 8s

MVP: Sonny Simcox

Best Attacker: Wyaht Tumarae

Best Defender: Jack Playford

Most Improved: Carson Aveau

Under 9s

MVP: Evan De Wet

Best Attacker: Easton Foe

Best Defender: Jack Clarke

Most Improved: Kade Thomas-Plower

Under 12s

MVP: Christopher Lolohea

Best Forward: Aizen Vaaulu

Best Back: Orlando Oti

Most Improved: Rylee Seumanutafa

Seniors

MVP: Terry Plower

Best Forward: Keryn Welch

Best Back: Tepaewhenau Ropata

Most Improved: Eugene Blom

Springfield 7s Tournament

This year, we hosted Queensland Rugby’s annual Springfield 7s tournament, welcoming schools from across the region for an exciting age-group competition. Some of our Hawks girls bolstered a Barbarians team from the Gold Coast and narrowly missed victory in the final. The tournament was a fantastic showcase of community spirit and rugby talent.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As we prepare for the new year, we’re excited for the opportunities that lie ahead:

Completing our long-awaited clubhouse.

Launching new programs for girls and ladies.

Expanding junior participation and school partnerships.

Building on the continued success of our senior men’s teams.

Gratitude and Appreciation

To our members, sponsors, and supporters: thank you for making 2024 unforgettable. Your passion fuels our success, and we’re excited to embark on an even brighter 2025 together.

Warm regards,
Shay Randle
President, Springfield Lakes Hawks Rugby Club