Hawks rally together in face of COVID adversity

In the face of this COVID-19 wave of adversity, the Illawarra Hawks' family has once again proven how powerful it is.

On Wednesday, several members of the Hawks camp returned a positive COVID-19 result - leading to Thursday's round four NBL22 fixture against the South East Melbourne Phoenix and subsequent clashes with the Kings and Taipans, to be postponed.

As such, members of the team, both who have tested positive as well as those deemed close contact, must undergo the mandatory 10 days isolation,  as per the NSW Health protocols - therefore interrupting numerous Christmas plans.

To say the club has been tested is an understatement, but in tough times, true champions show their mettle. 

Without hesitation a war-room was set up, COVID style via Zoom, with everyone from the owners, coaches, players, staff and volunteers, rallying together in a show of solidarity. 

The target – securing the health and well being of the team.

Within the space of a few hours, players had texted orders, spreadsheets compiled, volunteers organised and each of the Hawks in home isolation had grocery supplies dropped off to their residence, to ensure they were well fed and looked after during this festive period.

"Teamwork is paramount and seeing our group work together and making sure our team is supported is the most important thing," Hawks co-owner and president Dorry Kordahi said.

"It’s the small things that make a difference.

"Culture is important to this club and these situations help build on that."

Send your message of support to the team below. 

Illawarra coaches and players alike were extremely grateful for these acts, which speak highly of the culture at the foundation club.

"The way all the Hawks staff have worked together during this tough time has been all class - the players really appreciate the support," coach Brian Goorjian said.

This sentiment was echoed by guard Isaac White.

"I just wanted to thank the club for looking after us and delivering our groceries - these acts don't go unnoticed and shows why this club is different to others," White said.

On top of that, to ensure their skills remained sharp, each of the players had training equipment, such as basketballs and resistance bands, dropped off in a COVID-safe manner.

To help all the impacted individuals get through isolation this holiday period, HawkHeads please send your well wishes here.

Tickets for the Hawks' next three matches will go on sale from 2pm AEDT on Wednesday, December 29 via Ticketmaster.

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