The Reclink Football League has been running for over 30 years and is a pioneering Australian not-for-profit competition providing inclusive, supportive sport for people experiencing disadvantage, social isolation, or mental health challenges. It was founded by Peter Cullen in St Kilda and has grown from a grassroots kick-to-kick into a state league that builds community, confidence, and connection.
and Geoff Wright
The competition is a mixed competition with the girls and the disadvantaged wearing a yellow vest bearing “Cannot be Tackled”) and is Victoria wide. It currently comprises thirteen teams with many travelling from regional areas such as Bendigo, Ballarat and Geelong.
The Salvo Hawks connection with Reclink is now in its twentieth year, first introduced to Hawthorn Rotary through long-term Rotarian, the late Lawrence Reddaway. Currently, Hawthorn Rotary supports the team by funding a goal umpire, a timekeeper and after match pizzas.
The team plays its home games fortnightly on the good quality suburban grounds at Victoria Reserve, Victoria Road in Hawthorn East from12:00 noon.
Readers may recall the famous 1996 merger saga between the AFL Clubs Melbourne and Hawthorn which did not eventuate. This year we have seen a successful merger with the Salvo Hawks and their rivals, Windana. The players of both sides play as a cohesive team. On a perfect Melbourne day recently, the game was played in a great spirit with a high standard of sportsmanship by all involved.
The love of footy and was very much on display with all players showing respect and understanding for those who are having some difficulty with life challenges. The combination proved to be a great success with the Salvo Hawks/Windana defeating Melton Lions by two goals in the second round of the 2026 competition.
Two young field umpires with senior experience controlled the game, giving each player a chance to perform to their skill level with particular importance to involve the not so skilled and female players. Footy aficionados will appreciate the quarter by quarter summary that follows.
First Quarter:
Salvo Hawks /Windana – 4.4 (28)
Melton Lions – 2.2 (14)
Salvo Hawks kicking with the breeze got away to a great start in the first Quarter with domination from the Centre.
Second Quarter:
Salvo Hawks /Windana – 6.6 (42)
Melton Lions – 6.2 (38)
Even second Quarter, however Melton controlled the game.
Third Quarter:
Salvo Hawks/Windana – 9.3(57)
Melton Lions – 11.3 (69)
Melton won the Third Quarter with their youth scoring goals to set up a two goal lead.
Fourth Quarter:
Salvo Hawks/Windana – 15.4 (94)
Melton Lions – 13.4 (82)
Salvo Hawks fired up and kicked 6 Goals to 2 being strong winners by 2 Goals.