'It's a big deal': Morris launches coaching career with Harden Hawks

The 27-year-old joins Hawks after a short stint with Canberra Cup side Belconnen United Sharks, following time in Group 11, Group 10 and Group 9 with Forbes, Orange CYMS and Wagga Brothers respectively.

While Morris is excited to kickstart his coaching career, he understands the importance of respecting the club's 100^th year anniversary.

He says he won't be pushing for any out-of-town signings, unless positions require filling.

"The whole idea especially being the 100^th year anniversary, we want to get as many locals on board as possible and if there's some holes to fill we'll look at what we can do," he said.

"I know a little bit about the town. Everyone is really keen about their footy. It's a big deal to coach this side even though it's a small competition, I know how serious it's going to be. And it's the 100th year, it's massive, I don't think many clubs have done that."

Morris says the chance to win a senior competition was added incentive to sign the dotted line.

Sidelined through injury in 2017 and 2018 following a knee reconstruction, and after only playing a handful of games for Belconnen in 2019, Morris said he's determined to resume playing regularly and help lift Hawks to what would be a memorable premiership.

"I haven't won a [senior] competition which is extra motivation. It's also my first year coaching so I'm jumping in the deep end a bit," he said.

"I had two years off following a knee reconstruction and just missed the game too much. I returned last year and thought I want to have crack at coaching."

Hawks last claimed the George Tooke Shield premiership in 2017.

They finished third this year and were eliminated in the finals series following two straight losses.

The 2020 ladies' league tag coach is Jason Pollard, and David Ings will mentor the ladies' tackle side.

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