The newly named Northern Hawks club will compete in the Newcastle Rugby League in 2021, with a reserve grade and under 19 side, in addition to an open's team.

The Newcastle Hawks is an indigenous-based club which competes in the tribal league and is seeking to provide pathway opportunities for local Aboriginal players to compete week-in, week-out at a higher level of football.

The club will play its home games at Tomaree No. 1 sports complex with former NRL and Newcastle Knights centre Brad Tighe coaching the reserves, while Andrew Chapman (Sharks) remains in charge of the 19s. The opens will be coached by Hawks stalwart Charlie Faulkner.

Chapman said that negotiations between the two clubs over the past couple of months had resulted in a massive boost for senior rugby league in Port Stephens.

"We see the amalgamation as a perfect fit, providing opportunities for our juniors and a direct pathway for those talented players looking to transition into the senior ranks," Chapman said.

"We will be promoting the merged club as an inclusive, integrated club and at the same time reviving top level football in the Bay. It is anticipated that the Hawks will field a first grade side in the Real NRL in 2022."

A former first grade and Newcastle Rugby League representative, Brad Tighe brings plenty of skill and experience to the fold.

"This is very exciting news," Tighe said. "bringing these two club together will provide young kids the opportunity to develop their game and a smoother transition into the senior ranks.

"We believe there has been a real need for a first grade club north of Newcastle. The merger between the Hawks and Nelson Bay will allow us to develop the juniors under the guidance of some of the more experienced heads."

He said that fielding a competitive first grade side in 2022 was an achievable goal and that recruitment has already begun.

The two coaches said the goal was for Northern Hawks to build on the success of the Newcastle Hawks while providing players residing in Port Stephens the chance to represent their district at all levels.

"The Northern Hawks club will celebrate and promote the Aboriginal culture and Port Stephens region, while committing to honesty, integrity, trust, transparency, fairness and equity."

The merger will be financed through funding streams from the Hawks and sponsors retained through the Nelson Bay Sharks organisation. Players and volunteers are still being sought and those interested can attend training Tuesday or Thursday nights from 6.30 at the Tomaree complex.

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