Hawks History

Timeline: Club Origins & Early Growth

Pre-History & Formation (1999–2001)

The club’s story began in 1999 when local dad Mark Kentwell wanted to bring Auskick to Saratoga so his son Alex Kentwell and other local kids could enjoy AFL without travelling to Terrigal. That first Auskick group included families like Mitch Guthmann, Mitch Crosland, Alex Tomlin, Blake Brissett, Liana Towgood and Blake Kelly.

By 2000, the group moved permanently to Saratoga Oval, with growing numbers and community momentum, setting the stage for establishing an official club.

Foundation Year – 2001

In 2001, the Saratoga Hawks were officially formed to enter an Under-10s non-competitive team in the Central Coast Junior AFL league. Mark chose the name “Hawks” and the iconic Hawthorn-style colours in an enthusiastic (and one-eyed) decision that shaped the club’s identity from day one.

That year’s organising team included Mark Kentwell (club leader) and treasurer Tracy Kentwell, and the first volunteers and families such as the Andersons, Cantrills, Jay MacDonald, the Mumfords, Nick Ramsden, the Rodways and the Williams family.

The inaugural team — made up of Ben & Matt Taylor, Alex Tomlin, Heather & Tom Rankin, Alex Kentwell, Nick Ramsden, Max Mumford, Blake Brissett, Nick Merritt, Mitch Crosland and Mitch Guthmann — proudly wore their first playing strip, a Brisbane Bears-style design donated by Killarney Vale.

Building the Club (2002–2005)

2002 – Official Committee & Foundations

In 2002, the first official club committee was formed:

• President: Mark Kentwell

• Treasurer: Tracy Kentwell

• Auskick Manager: Dave Crawford

• Football Manager: Miles Guthmann

• Marketing: Cathy Hunter
  
  

That year the club also received its first black and gold Hawks guernseys donated by the AFL and began ground improvements including the new clubhouse and canteen.

2003 – Growing Participation & Culture

By 2003, the Hawks fielded independent Under-10s and Under-12s teams with more than 50 kids involved. Key volunteer figures included Rod Taylor — the club’s first accredited umpire — and committee members such as John Anderson, Steve Williams and Darren Rodway supporting Auskickers.

The club introduced awards like the Clubman of the Year (first won by President Mark Kentwell) and the Hawk Award, first presented to Phil “Beanie” Mumford for his contributions.

2004 – Tradition & Spirit

Season 2004 saw the Under-14s take the field under coach Matt Hawkins and the club increase to around 60 children. Notable volunteers and families included Chris & Kim Cantrill, Linda Marin, Brett Small, Jesse Hancock, the Stubbs family and many others who helped grow participation and club spirit.

This year also produced memorable moments such as the Under-12s finals run and the club’s first Parents vs Kids match.

2005 – Continued Expansion

By 2005, the Hawks had nearly 70 children across Auskick, Under-10s, Under-12s and Under-14s teams. Volunteers such as John Anderson and Dave Crawford stepped into umpiring and club leadership roles, and club traditions — like the distinctive gold polo shirts for committee members — became established.

Highlights included multiple Central Coast representative players and players like Alex Havet progressing to elite training opportunities through programs such as the Swans Academy.

Growth & Development (2006–2008)

2006 – First Finals Success

In 2006, the club maintained strong numbers and fielded an Under-16s team in partnership with neighbouring clubs. The Under-14s recorded the first ever finals win in club history. Volunteers like Rob Dixon brought professional coaching insight that elevated team performance.

Awards this year included the Hawk Award for Karyn Lenson and Clubman of the Year for John Anderson, while the new Junior Clubperson Award was presented to Max Mumford.

2007–2008 – Steady Growth & Online Presence

By 2007, the club had grown to 77 players and welcomed new team members and families including Braydon Andrews, the Fairchilds and others. Players like Max Mumford and Alex Havet excelled in broader regional competitions and academy programs.

In 2008, the Hawks stood alone fielding a full Under-16s squad and surpassed 90 players across age groups, demonstrating sustained growth. The club also launched its own website, sarahawks.org.au, establishing a permanent home for club news, history and registration information.

Recent History & Legacy

Since its foundation, the Saratoga Hawks have continued to expand participation and community impact, including supporting female youth football teams as the youth girls AFL competition grew on the Central Coast.

Every season adds to the club’s legacy of fun, skill development and community involvement — thanks to the countless volunteers, families and players who contribute each year.

Why History Matters

The Saratoga Hawks’ history isn’t just a record of dates — it reflects a culture of inclusivity, teamwork, resilience and fun. From the first Auskick group in 1999 to a thriving junior football club with growing teams across age groups and gender pathways, the Hawks embody a community-centred approach to sport that has stood the test of time.