Highett FC player Hawk Hodkinson has been recognised as the first Monash University Leader of the 2021 season.
Hawk, 13, made headlines on ANZAC Day after running 7.5 kilometres from Highett to his 9:00am game at Murrumbeena when his ride failed to show.
Waiting outside the house and seeing the clock had struck 9:00am, Hawk picked up his bag, ran and made it in time for the game’s second half.
Reflecting on the journey, Hawk said he didn’t think of stopping.
“‘I need to get to my game. I need to get to my game. I need to get to my game,’ the whole time. That’s what I heard, over and over again,” he said.
Hawk said his first instincts were to collect his bike, but was stopped in his tracks.
“I go to get my bike, and I realise that my bike helmet is wet,” he said. “I decided, ‘I don’t want to be wet today.'”
Hawk’s initiative and efforts were officially recognised by Highett FC at the ANZAC Day ceremony, where he was presented the Club ANZAC Day medal.
The medal was presented to a player that displayed courage, mateship, fairness, persistence, integrity, humour, initiative, endurance, determination, ingenuity, respect, and the “selfless spirit of ANZAC”.
Hawk said he was honoured to be acknowledged by the club for his efforts.
“After the game, everyone was really supportive and the coach gave me an award. I didn’t think I was gonna get that, but I’m very grateful for it,” he said.
Hawk said he was inspired by other Highett FC members and their dedication to the club.
“The coaches take all of their time to set this up, which I am grateful towards. A leader needs to connect with everyone that they’re leading and have respect and trust,” he said.
Hawk said that Highett FC had all the ingredients to create a fun and supportive club environment.
“Most of the time, its about mutual respect with the coach, the team and the equipment we use,” Hawk said.
“Everyone’s really supportive of each other. Its like a big pizza with everyone as all the different flavours. The coaches are the cheese and the base.”
Hawk’s marathon effort will continue throughout the remainder of the season as he prepares for his next challenge – the Herald Sun Royal Children’s Hospital Run for the Kids on Sunday 29 August.
“We received from Bendigo Bank $150, and I have put that through to the Royal Children’s Hospital, which I’m very happy about,” he said.
“There are many people who are less fortunate than myself.”
Hawk has currently raised $244 and will run 15 kilometres, for which he’s already started preparing by running around Highett Oval.
You can support Hawk and his Run for the Kids campaign here.
The South Metro Junior Football League and Monash University congratulate Hawk on showing great leadership within the community.
If you would like to nominate someone at your club for the Monash University Leadership Award, you can do so here. Nominees must be under 18 years of age and be currently involved with an SMJFL club or the league.
