In 2026, Hills Hornets Touch Football marks its 40th anniversary — four decades of growth, resilience and success that have transformed a small local competition into one of NSW’s most decorated and community‑driven touch football clubs.
From humble beginnings in 1986, the Hornets have built a legacy defined by strong culture, volunteer leadership and a commitment to developing players of all ages. The journey has included near‑collapse in the mid‑2000s, a bold relaunch in 2008, and a sustained rise that has seen the club become a benchmark for best practice across the state.
A club rebuilt through leadership and community
The Hornets’ resurgence was powered by volunteers, coaches, referees and administrators who rebuilt the club from seven senior teams in 2007 to more than 150 teams today. That transformation has been recognised repeatedly at state and regional level, with the Hornets earning NSW Touch Affiliate of the Year five times.
The club’s administrators have also been among the most awarded in NSW.
- Brad Mitchell claimed Scorpions Administrator of the Year and NSW Administrator of the Year four times.
- Katrina McIlwraith continued that legacy with NSW Administrator in 2022 as well as Scorpions Administrator of the Year awards three times.
Both Brad and Katrina have also been awarded the sport’s highest honour — the Rod Wise Volunteer of the Year Medal.
Recognition beyond touch football
The Hornets’ impact extends well beyond the field. In 2023, the club was named Sport NSW Community Club of the Year, recognising its leadership in community engagement, inclusion, volunteer development and grassroots participation.
A powerhouse in junior development
The Hornets’ junior program has become one of the strongest in the state, producing NSW and Australian representatives and delivering sustained success at Junior State Cup. The club has:
- Won the Southern Conference Club Championship in 2022 and 2023
- Claimed multiple State Titles across U12, U14, U16 and U18 divisions
- Achieved record representation in NSW squads, Scorpions teams and Australian Youth squads
These achievements reflect years of investment in coaching, pathways and development programs that have helped young Hornets progress from U10s to Premier League and beyond.
Success across senior competitions
The Hornets’ representative program has delivered titles and breakthrough performances across Vawdon Cup and Senior State Cup in Mens, Womens and Mixed Divisions.
The club’s All Abilities program has also become a standout, earning state recognition and showcasing the inclusive spirit that defines the Hornets.
A thriving referee development pathway
One of the club’s most significant success stories has been the rise of its referee program. What began as a small group of volunteers has grown into a structured, holistic pathway that now produces some of the state’s most promising officials.
The program has become a defining part of the Hornets identity — inclusive, developmental, and focused on long‑term growth.
Looking ahead
Forty years on, Hills Hornets Touch Football stands as a club built on people — volunteers who give their time, coaches who shape the next generation, referees who uphold the game, and players who wear the maroon and gold with pride.
To everyone who has contributed to the Hornets story — past, present and future — thank you. This milestone belongs to you.