The Member Diaries - Simon Makres

Ever since Simon Makres was invited to a Hawks game way back in 2003, the basketball nut has been a rusted on Hawks fan through thick and thin.

But it was a moment early on in his Hawks journey that galvanised his love of the sport and ultimately set the platform for over 18 years of sporting love and support.

"I remember the Mat Campbell buzzer beater for the win against Townsville in 2004. After rallying back from 25 down late in the third quarter you could really feel the mood of the crowd change the closer the margin got, then the roof must have blown off when the winner went down. I instantly loved it and have been to just about every home game since," Makres said. 

It was that generation of Hawks that inspired a new wave of basketballers in the Illawarra. And as Makres continues his role with the Illawarra Basketball Assocation as the competitions manager, he can see first hand just how much basketball runs through the veins of young boys and girls in these parts nowadays.

"I'm at the Snakepit almost everyday (pre-COVID times) and the amount of young kids and families we have playing basketball is mind-blowing. There's always a ball being bounced by someone on those courts and it's exciting to be playing a role in developing the sport in the region. I can almost guarantee there's a future Ilawarra Hawk or two running around in our local competitions right now as well," Makres said.

As for the gameday experience, Makre believes there's only way to enjoy the hottest and most exciting sporting team in town. 

Can you spot Simon in this heaving crowd?

"A season ticket is the only way. It's a guaranteed seat without the hassle of lining up for tickets each game. A basketball game day experience is like no other. Lights out intros, loud music, the court announcer amping up the crowd and the exciting interaction between the two. Not to mention how close you can get to the court, you can really feel the heat of the battle," Makres said.

Makres is the ultimate fan. Passionate, loyal, fierce, exciteable and a good guy to boot.

Not only does he ride the highs and lows of every moment inside the WIN Entertainment Centre, he can often be found for a play-by-play recount afterwards at the Steelers club as well, beverage in hand, celebrating or commiserating with his fellow Hawkheads. His love for the team and the game is almost unrivalled, and his passion for the sport is inspiring. 

And as for what he hopes to see this upcoming season.

"I just want to get back to the basketball and hopefully 100% stadium capacity. I've got no real favourites, I'm just excited to see the whole team represent the region and rock the competition heavyweights," Makres said.

If you know someone we should feature in our Member Diaries - drop us an email at membership@hawks.com.au