07/06/2026
JKB A1 HAWKS SOAR TO BACK-TO-BACK VICTORIES IN WRFL 2026 SEASON
The JKB A1 Hawks have continued their impressive return to the Wabag Rugby Football League (WRFL), securing back-to-back wins in the Senior Men's Division after Round 1, Game 2 of the 2026 competition.
As one of the founding and oldest clubs in the WRFL, the Hawks have made a strong statement this season after missing last year's competition. The club rejoined in 2026 with the support of major sponsor JKB and has quickly emerged as one of the competition's form teams.
During a brief interview, Club Head Coach Mr. George Titakai, who oversees all divisions and is actively involved in player development and talent identification, reflected on the club's proud history.
"A1 stands for Awain. Awain is a large tribe surrounding Wabag Town and consists of the Yakal, Kayalu, Apiyap, and Sapip tribes," Mr. Titakai explained.
"Over the years, some Awain tribes have branched out and formed their own clubs, but the Yakal Tribe of Keas Village chose to preserve the legacy of the Awain Hawks. Different sponsors have come and gone throughout the years, but the Hawks have continued to exist."
Mr. Titakai acknowledged that the club had faced challenges in recent years due to internal issues among some Yakal sub-clans, leading to a period of disunity. However, the club was deliberately re-registered this year with the aim of bringing the community together once again.
"Rugby league is not just a game-it is a tool for peace, unity, and community development. The team has embraced that message, and the results are showing on the field," he said.
The Hawks' commitment to unity and teamwork has translated into success across all grades. At the completion of Round 1, Game 2, the club recorded victories in all three divisions:
π Junior Men's Division
π Women's Division
π Senior Men's Division
With two consecutive wins in the Senior Men's competition and strong performances across the board, the JKB A1 Hawks are proving that their return to the WRFL is about more than rugby-it's about restoring pride, unity, and the legacy of one of Wabag's most respected rugby league clubs.