The Hills Hornets delivered a strong all‑round performances at the NSW Touch Junior State Cup in Wagga Wagga, showcasing depth, resilience, and trademark Hornets spirit across three massive days of competition.
With 10 teams entered, the club produced an extraordinary return:
- 8 teams reached the quarterfinals
- 5 advanced to the semifinals
- 3 earned their place in Grand Finals
- And the pinnacle moment — the U18 Boys claimed the Championship in the Premier Division
It was a weekend that underlined the Hornets’ strength across the park, from elite performance to emerging talent and a record-setting referee contingent.
U18 Boys Crowned Champions — Undefeated and Unstoppable
The headline act belonged to the U18 Boys, who stormed through the tournament undefeated before producing a commanding 7–2 Grand Final victory.
Coached by Alex Nolan and his father Dave, and led superbly by Junior Club Captain Logan Bubb, the team set the standard from Day 1. Their Grand Final performance was a masterclass in composure, execution, and belief.
James Fitzhenry capped off a brilliant tournament by being named Player of the Final, a fitting recognition for his influence across the weekend.
U14 Girls Defy the Odds to Reach the Grand Final
If the U18 Boys delivered dominance, the U14 Girls delivered heart.
Under the guidance of Monique “Rare Gift” Nolan and assisted by Australian Emu Represenatative Jade Pond, the girls shocked everyone except their coaches by surging into the Grand Final. Their campaign became even more remarkable after losing captain Taylor Smith to HIA early in the tournament.
Across Sunday, the team showed grit and courage that inspired everyone watching. They pushed a strong Cronulla side all the way in the decider, falling just short but earning enormous respect across the event.
U14 Boys Fight Their Way to the Grand Final
The U14 Boys, coached by Brad Curl with Ryan Charlwood as assistant also earned their place on the big stage with a determined run to the Grand Final.
In another tight contest against the Cronulla Sharks, the Hornets were edged out narrowly — but not before showcasing the talent and tenacity that defines the club.
Young gun Cooper Sassine, the youngest player in the team, was voted Players’ Player after an outstanding three‑day performance that belied his age.
Record-Breaking Referee Success
The Hornets’ success wasn’t limited to the player achievements.
In a historic achievement, five Hills Hornets referees were appointed to Grand Finals, the most in club history. This milestone is a testament to the leadership and dedication of Lucinda Wherle, whose work in building the club’s referee program continues to set new standards.
A New Generation of Coaches Emerging
One of the most exciting storylines from Wagga Wagga was the emergence of the Hornets’ next generation of junior coaches — young leaders who only a few years ago were wearing the Hornets jersey themselves.
Their presence across multiple age groups reflects the club’s commitment to developing not just players, but future mentors, role models, and community leaders.
This year’s Junior State Cup featured an impressive cohort:
- U10 Girls – Head Coach Sophie Williams, assisted by Phoebe Hunt and Lily Jack
- U12 Girls – Assistant Coach Tasha White
- U10 Boys – Head Coach Ryan Charlwood, assisted by Alex McIlwraith and Baylen Mitchell
- U14 Boys – Matt Curl and Ryan Charlwood again contributing, adding an assistant coaching role on top of his U10 leadership
- U14 Girls – Jade Pond assisting her future mother‑in‑law
- U16 Girls – Assistant Coach Ava Foxe
- U16 Boys – Head Coach Ed Matta, assisted by Reilly Canning and Josh Curl
- U18 Girls – Assistant Coach Pyper Marchant and Manager Tia Post
- U18 Boys – Head Coach Alex Nolan, continuing his progression through the coaching ranks
Their involvement is more than symbolic — it’s a living example of the Hornets’ pathway in action. These young coaches bring energy, relatability, and a deep understanding of the club’s culture, and their impact was felt across the weekend.
Club President Katrina McIlwraith praised the results in Wagga Wagga, highlighting not only the on‑field success but the deeper structural changes the club has made in recent years — particularly around coaching development and youth leadership.
“Seeing so many of our former junior players step into coaching roles is one of the most pleasing parts of this year’s Junior State Cup. They’re carrying on the Hornets tradition in the best possible way — giving back, lifting others, and helping build a culture that will last well beyond any single tournament. Their impact was felt across every age group.”
A Club Effort Worth Celebrating
With strong results across all age groups, Hills Hornets finished 3rd in the overall Club Championship, behind Cronulla Sharks and Orange Thunder — an outstanding achievement in one of the most competitive Junior State Cups on record.
Just as importantly, every Hornets team represented the club with pride, sportsmanship, and the unmistakable Hornets spirit. Off the field, the camaraderie, laughter, and shared experiences were just as memorable as the tries scored on it.
NSW Touch once again delivered a superbly run event, and the Hornets community left Wagga Wagga proud, inspired, and already hungry for 2027.
