‍About the Program

• The program aims to tackle subjects ranging from learnings from players’ resilience journeys, to identifying personal strengths, and teamwork and communication, trust, respect and conflict resolution as ways to manage life changes and transitions.

• The custom-designed program leverages the renowned character of the Illawarra Hawks, to teach Year 5 – 8 Illawarra school students “Mental Fitness” resilience and techniques to face and overcome challenges in their lives.

• Our goal is to connect with 15 classrooms per team, leading to 60 classroom visits per annual school year.  

"A lot of students at our school do not have many positive male role

models in their lives so it was good seeing them engage in this program"​

Angus, Tarrawanna Public School

‍Program Inclusions

• 4-week program with Hawks to kick-start the program in Week 1; for teachers to continue in Week 2, 3 and 4.  

• Week 1 with Hawks includes 60-minute session that involves:

• 1x 30min classroom presentation with Hawks Player and Community Coordinator

• 1x 30min on-court clinic with Hawks Player and Community Coach

• Education Guide, designed and developed by Heather Macdonald. These guides are aligned with the NSW PDHPE curriculum for the appropriate Stage and designed to help the teachers deliver in class.

• Lesson plans and PowerPoint presentation, supported by Hawks players and new specialised teaching resources appropriate to the Stage for classroom delivery. For example, Stage 3 (Yr 5-6) or Stage 4 (Yr7-8).  

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Participating Schools:

MENTAL FITNESS PROGRAM

2025:

Term 3: Nareena Hills PS, Hayes Park PS, Mt Ousley PS, Thirroul PS

Term 4: Lakelands PS, Koonawarra PS, Pleasant Heights PS, Shell Cove PS, Tarrawanna PS

2026:

Term 2: Farmborough PS, Gerringong PS, Mt St Thomas PS, Waniora PS,

Term 3: Lakelands PS, St Brigid's Catholic Primary School, Warilla North PS, Wollongong PS

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Testimonial

"The program was an engaging and valuable experience for our students. The presenters delivered important messages about mental fitness in a fun and relatable way, encouraging students to develop positive strategies for wellbeing and resilience. The basketball activities were highly engaging, and students thoroughly enjoyed learning new skills while building confidence, teamwork and a positive mindset. It was a fantastic session that left a lasting impact on our students."

Andrew McCullouch, Mt St Thomas PS