Hawks skipper moves on after seven-year stint

HENLEY Hawks skipper Rory Mason has left the club after announcing he is moving down to Devon after seven years at Dry Leas.

The tight-head prop, who joined the club from Chinnor back in 2018, made 24 appearances for the Hawks last season, scoring nine tries in the process.

Speaking of his departure, Henley Hawks director of rugby Luke Allen said: “Since joining the Hawks family back in 2018, Rory has been so much more than just a player.

“He’s been a true leader, someone who embodied everything our club stands for, both on and off the pitch. His dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting mark on the team and the wider Hawks community.

“We also want to give a heartfelt thank you to his wife Aimee, whose warmth, generosity and tireless support behind the scenes meant so much to the club.

“We are deeply grateful for everything you’ve both given to the Hawks. You will always be part of our family, and we wish you nothing but happiness and success in your next chapter.”

Meanwhile last Thursday Henley Hawks ran out 52-19 winners in a pre-season friendly at Oxford Harlequins in a match played out in three, 30 minute sessions.

Hawks try scorers were Lailand Gordon, Moses Fakatou, Oskar White, Zack Wicks, Will Neilson and Isaac Smalls with Max Titchener, Will Baildon and Matt Cooke kicking further points.

The Hawks’ new head coach Ricky Khan said: “The main objective for us was to see the combinations of players and test out some of our plays. It was a good opportunity to allow the team to put together some of what they have been working on since July and for us as coaches to see if there are any gaps we have had in our preparation.

“We know it will be a very different prospect when we play Oxford Quins in the season with players back from injury and the added importance of it being a derby.” Tonight (Friday) Henley Hawks play their final pre-season friendly when they host Loughborough Students, kick-off 7.15pm.

Henley Hawks begin their National League Division 2 East season
on September 6 when they host Guernsey.