It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of one of the Hawks favourite sons, Darryle Alexander, who passed away peacefully on 8th December at the age of 75. Darryle was a much loved, respected and admired member of the Hawks family and gave many years service to the Hawks both as player, coach and supporter.
All family and friends are warmly invited to attend a celebration of Darryle’s life at the Hillside Chapel, Palmdale Lawn Cemetery & Memorial Park, 57 Palmdale Rd, Palmdale on Tuesday 16th December at 1.30pm
We have a special eight page lift-out previewing the 2025 Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield competitions. We look at every club, their history in the competition, coach and any key signings. We have the full competitions for both competitions and a look back at which teams have won the grand final in the Ron Massey Cup and Sydney Shield.. Find out more in the latest issue of Rugby League Review.
Ryde-Eastwood Hawks and the Wests Tigers have a longstanding partnership aimed at fostering rugby league talent from grassroots to professional levels. This collaboration provides emerging players with a clear pathway to advance their careers within the sport.
A notable example of this pathway’s success is Tim Johannssen. After joining the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks in early 2024, Johannssen’s impressive performances led to his promotion to the Western Suburbs Magpies in the NSW Cup. His dedication and skill culminated in an NRL debut with the Wests Tigers in August 2024.
Image by NRL
The coaching staff also exemplify this collaborative spirit. Jarred Farlow, previously the head coach of the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks in the Ron Massey Cup, has been appointed as an assistant coach for the Magpies’ NSW Cup team in 2025.
On February 1, 2025, the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks and the Wests Tigers held an opposed training session to strengthen their partnership further. This session provided players with valuable experience and showcased the depth of talent within both clubs. Such collaborative efforts are instrumental in preparing athletes for the rigors of professional rugby league and ensuring a seamless transition through the ranks.
Image by Steph Spooner
The continued cooperation between the Ryde-Eastwood Hawks and the Wests Tigers underscores their commitment to developing rugby league talent and providing structured opportunities for players to progress from local competitions to the NRL.