Longstanding Mercury partnership helps Hawks thrive

Since the Hawks were founded in 1979, the Illawarra Mercury have ridden the highs and lows of the NBL club.

Their partnership, which now sees the Mercury as one of the club’s media partners, has grown ever since, as the Hawks fly towards their historic second championship banner.

“The Illawarra Hawks are an icon of the region and as the local news publisher with a national reach through our ACM (Australian Community Media) network, it's an obvious match for us to provide financial support and comprehensive coverage of the club on and off the court,” Illawarra Mercury editor Gayle Tomlinson said.

Part of the media partnership sees Hawks skipper AJ Ogilvy have a weekly ‘Captain’s Call’ article in the Mercury each week.

"My weekly article is a great way to be able to connect with the region," said Ogilvy, whose been contributing to the article for two seasons.

"To have a platform where I can chat about all things Hawks on a weekly basis has been awesome.

"Not always easy conversations but I always enjoy recapping the past week and having that outlet."

Much like Ogilvy highlighting the positive impact of the partnership, Tomlinson drew comparisons between the two proud Illawarra franchises.

“The Mercury is deeply connected to the Illawarra community, providing a news service that readers can't get anywhere else,” Tomlinson said.

“The Hawks is the only professional sports team exclusively based in the Illawarra. 

“Hawks fans are exceptionally loyal to the team and feel privileged that they can watch outstanding basketball on their doorstep.”

Tomlinson also praised the work of the Hawks’ new ownership team over the past 18 months.

“The Hawks have worked hard to be visible in the community and are approachable to their young fans,” said Tomlinson, whose company will be the Hawks’ game night partner this Friday against Cairns.

“We've watched the smile on kids' faces when the Hawks show them how to play basketball at school, and the crowds that gathered at the beach when the team was training on the sand during lockdown.  

“Where else can a fan sit on the beach and watch a professional train? 

“This approach will ensure we develop young basketball players for the future and continue to keep a loyal fan base for the Hawks.”

Those positive comments pleased Hawks co-owner and president Dorry Kordahi, who appreciates how important the Illawarra Mercury has been for his club over the years.

“Both our club, much like the Illawarra Mercury, are committed to making the region proud, both on and off the court, so to hear the impact we’re having on the community is fantastic,” Kordahi said.

“We appreciate our long-standing partnership with the Mercury, which has spanned 43 years, and we look forward to reaching new heights together in the coming seasons.”

To find out more about how you too can become a corporate partner, email partnerships@hawks.com.au.