Frank Hawley Obituary, Death- Frank Hawley received his Heart and Soul award from the Foundation in 2015, and we at the Foundation were deeply grieved to learn of his loss recently. We believe it is only fair that today’s post honors his life.
Since he was a little lad, Frank has supported Warrington. He discovered a method to share his passion for the game by leading the rugby league team at St. John’s RC High School, which is now Cardinal Newman RC High School. He had a very successful teaching career for 38 years, serving as Head of Year and teaching Art, Religious Studies, and Physical Education. After taking a refereeing course and starting to officiate regular games in 1974 after coaching the school’s rugby league team, Frank became one of the sport’s most admired officials. Frank went on to touch international judge matches, Challenge Cup finals, and Super League Grand Finals as a Grade One match official.
Frank stopped working as a match official in 2003 and spent the following four years managing Championship Touch Judges, a program that helped aspiring touch judges in the lower echelons of professional football achieve their Super League goals. He frequently helped the Warrington Rugby League Referees’ Society develop new and young referees, and it was for his rugby career that he received the Heart and Soul award from the Foundation.
Frank undoubtedly made his stamp on the sport in Warrington, and many people were won over by his affable, kind personality. A great loss to his friends, family, and the sport, but his legacy will live on in all of our memories as evidenced by his well-deserved Heart & Sole Award.
On the day of his 72nd birthday, which would have been today, he will be laid to rest. Frank, you will be missed by your loved ones, close friends, and the rugby community as a whole. Peace be with you.