U12 Boys Hawthorn Shield 2026 Information and registration

Each year Townsville and Cairns compete in an intercity carnival called the Hawthorn Shield. Townsville Hockey encourage as many players (DOB 2014, 2015 & 2016) as possible to nominate and enjoy a weekend of fun and competitive intercity hockey.

The Hawthorn Shield is an opportunity for all age groups in Townsville to compete, from U12's through to Masters, it is a great day at the fields for the family to watch and play some great hockey. The Hawthorn Shield this year will be played in Cairns over the weekend of the 11th and 12th of April 2026. All players are strongly encouraged to be a part of this weekend of fun, friendships and hockey. THA aims to take 2 teams every year however this is highly dependant on the number of nominations of players/families willing to travel to Cairns, and on what teams Cairns will provide.

Coaching staff will be announced as soon as possible following discussion and review from THA representatives. The playing teams will follow as selection process and will be announced after club preseason rounds, trainings and trials with club representatives and a coaching panel.

Trainings are most likely to be scheduled Sunday mornings or afternoons (as below but subject to change) more definite details will be confirmed once teams and staff are finalised.

The Key dates are below for the build up to the Intercity matches (all subject to change):
6th - 21st March Three weeks junior club Preseason
15th March Sunday U12 Boys Squad/selection 1st trial/training (3-4pm Billabong Turf)
22nd March Sunday U 12 Boys Squad/selection 2nd trial/training (3-4pm Bears Grass field)
25th March Proposed release of Hawthorn Shield team
29th March Sunday U12 Boys Squad/selection 3rd trial/training (Times TBC)

5th April ( Easter Sunday) Possible last training before Hawthorn shield (Times TBC)
11-12th April Hawthorn shield Intercity event - CAIRNS


As you can appreciate Hawthorn Shield (11 - 12th April) is early in the hockey calendar so it is imperative you try your best to register ASAP and attend all trials/trainings where possible and please let coaching staff know if you are unavailable.

This year Hawthorn Shield is in Cairns so teams will have to travel and compete in Cairns (11-12th April) to best prepare. Please be aware this is a self travel and accommodate weekend.

We look forward to working with all our keen new and returning U12 boys to prepare and send sides away to the Hawthorn shield weekend in 2026.