Hawcoat Storm would like to thank all of our sponsors

Founded in September 2008 by Mark Burrows and Dean Brown, Funding has been secured from the local business community and also from within the club. The Rugby Union section kindly agreed to fund the shortfall in our playing strip budget and also assisted in the purchase of our new posts. Hawcoat Storm is the first venture into Rugby League for Hawcoat Park Sports and Social Club (Vickers Sports Club). The mini rugby teams are based around the ethos that Rugby League is a game for all and that everyone should be given a chance to perform to the best of their abilities, regardless of natural talent. The coaching approach reflects this with an emphasis on fun and fundamentals. "A little bit of structure and a lot of free spirit has proved to be a winning formula when introducing kids to the modified game at such a young age. We work with the individual to improve areas of their game and also encourage them to challenge themselves and take one for the team where necessary. The children develop into a competent playing unit without actually realising it.!

We currently have the qualified coaching capacity to run teams at Under 8s and Under 10s and will be looking to establish an Under 12s team in the very near future. Player recruitment is ongoing and should anyone wish to give it a try they'll be given a warm and understanding welcome. "Get them before football does" is also a statement that can be heard around the coaching staff. Too many talented youngsters are lost to the game of football without ever trying Rugby League, the only honest sport left in these days of blatant cheating and referee abuse. "We have no elitist approach to our selection. In fact we have no selection criteria because the aim for all our teams, first and foremost is to go out on the field of play, enjoy their rugby, challenge themselves and contribute to the teams performance. That's it if you take the time to come and train then you will be rewarded with an appearance at the weekend! The kids naturally become a unit and therefore naturally make life long friends that they would never have normally met. We also actively encourage parent involvement in everything from assisting at training sessions to attending one of our social events."

Storm coach Mark Burrows said, "We’re looking to those not currently involved in the local rugby league scene to come and give it a try, especially any girls who might be thinking about it. The multi sports facilities here at Hawcoat Park are excellent and the qualified coaching staff and everyone involved is enjoying the challenge of establishing a new club. Those in school years 1-5 have the opportunity to join Hawcoat Storm for the 2009 season and beyond in what will be their inaugural season in the local league. Hawcoat Storm has established a partnership in the community with The Croft Care Trust. Their new kits will carry the Croft logo and will help to highlight the work done by the trust which is situated just across the road. It is hoped that the more mobile residents will make the short trip across Hawcoat Lane on a Sunday morning to support their adopted team once the season starts in early March". The Storm have pledged 10% of any monies raised from fundraising events held throughout the season to the trust and in return the Croft trophy will become the star prize for the Player of the Year.

More information is available from Mark on 0784 112 2020.