A Legacy of Leadership: Brad Mitchell Steps Down as Hills Hornets Touch President After 16 Years.
Today marks a significant chapter in the history of Hills Hornets Touch as Brad Mitchell steps down from his role as president after 16 transformative years.
Brad’s leadership transformed Hills Hornets Touch from a club on the brink of collapse with no junior competition into an award-winning club both on and off the field.
Before Brad’s tenure began in 2008, Hills Touch, as it was then known, was a club struggling to stay afloat, with just seven teams registered in the park competition. But Brad’s dedication and visionary leadership established a new committee, strategic plan, and relaunched the club under the new brand, Hills Hornets Touch.
One of Brad’s most notable achievements was securing a permanent home for the club at the Centenary of ANZAC Reserve in 2010. This milestone laid the foundation for further growth and success.
After securing a permanent home for Hills Hornets Centenary of ANZAC Reserve, Brad spearheaded the launch of the Hills Hornets Junior Park Competition, starting with five teams. That same year, the club participated in its first NSW Junior State Cup, setting the stage for future triumphs.
Brad’s leadership was recognized in 2014 when he was awarded NSW Touch Administrator of the Year, and Hills Hornets Touch won Club of the Year. Under his leadership, the club experienced rapid growth. By 2015, Hills Hornets had over 70 junior and 70 senior teams, and again won Club of the Year.
Brad’s contributions were further acknowledged when he received NSW Touch’s most prestigious award, the Rod Wise Volunteer of the Year.
In 2022, Hills Hornets Touch continued to reach new heights, winning Club Champions at the Junior State Cup Southern Conference. The club repeated that performance in 2023 and also saw both Men’s and Women’s Premier League Teams competing in the Vawdon Cup competition in 2023.
2022 also saw Hills Horents Touch win NSW Touch Club of the year again, and the club also became the First Touch Football club to win the Community Club of the Year at the Sport NSW Awards.
In 2024 Brad was recognised for his many years of service when he received the NSW Touch Distinguised Long Service Award.
When asked about his 16 years, Mitchell said,
“It has been an incredible journey watching our club grow from humble beginnings to becoming one of the top touch football clubs in NSW. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our committee and members. I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am grateful for the unwavering support that has been the backbone of our success.”
Thanks to Brad’s visionary leadership, Hills Hornets is now one of NSW’s leading clubs. His legacy is one of community, growth, and unwavering passion for the sport. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the club, and he will be dearly missed. As the Hills Hornets Touch community looks to the future, they do so with immense gratitude for the foundations Brad has laid.