

Ashlyn Bazaj
History has been made at the Orange Hawks in central NSW with Bridie McClure (photo courtesy of Central Western Daily) becoming the first female president at the club.
McClure received a call from former club president Mark Johnston to gauge her interest in accepting the position before being officially voted in on 15 November last year. She has been at the club for nine years and is a devotee of the club’s culture, which she describes as “a big family”.
McClure understands the job is a big commitment and as the mother of a seven-month-old boy knows that juggling parenthood and club duties will be a challenge. However, she highlights the Hawks’ family-oriented nature as key for her getting support when she needs it.
A long-standing member of the Orange Hawks, McClure wants to see more female involvement within club ranks.
“We have some wonderful female volunteers who are a huge part of our club and I believe having a female in a high position within the committee will encourage more women to become a part of our wonderful club,” she told nswrl.com.au.
McClure has already faced questions about women holding executive positions in Rugby League.
“I did prepare myself for this when first taking the role,” she said.
“The game of football is definitely evolving, as seen at higher levels like the NRLW. I believe most people are very encouraging of our females being part of the sport.”
As president, McClure's focus is to maintain the friendly and welcoming family atmosphere at the club. She would like to keep the Hawks’ specific identity and culture radiate throughout all grades.
“As I have seen in previous years there can sometimes be a divide within the grades, so I would really love to see us all getting around each other and really putting our foot forward as a club, rather than separate teams within the club,” she said.