Joe Hawkins, born on June 11, 2002, is a talented Welsh rugby union player who has made a name for himself as a centre. He currently represents the Ospreys in the United Rugby Championship and has also had the opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage, earning caps for Wales. Hawkins made his test debut against Australia during the 2022 Autumn Internationals, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Hawkins' rugby journey began with the Pontardawe RFC youth team, where he honed his skills before progressing to play for Neath Port Talbot College and Neath Athletic. He also represented Swansea Valley in the Dewar Shield competition. Although he briefly dabbled in rugby league with the West Wales Raiders, Hawkins ultimately decided to focus solely on rugby union. He joined the Ospreys, initially featuring in their U16 side, and gradually progressed through the academy ranks.
The young centre made his professional rugby debut for the Ospreys in Round 4 of the 2020-21 Pro14 against Zebre when he was just 18 years old. Hawkins marked his professional try-scoring debut against Connacht on November 26, 2021. While primarily recognized as an inside centre, he has demonstrated versatility by also playing as an outside half, showcasing his adaptability in a Champions Cup match against Sale Sharks.
Hawkins has also represented Wales at the U20 level, first appearing in the team during the 2020 Six Nations Under 20s Championship at the age of 17. He made notable contributions, scoring tries against Scotland in both the 2021 and 2022 tournaments. Hawkins was even entrusted with the captaincy when Alex Mann was suspended during a match against France. He continued to impress and was named captain for the 2022 U20 Summer Series, where he converted a late penalty to secure victory against Italy. Although Wales reached the final of the tournament, they were unable to overcome South Africa.
In recognition of his talent, Hawkins was included in the Wales squad for the 2022 Autumn series, and on November 26, 2022, he made his international debut against Australia, starting as an inside centre. He carried his form into the 2023 Six Nations Championship, partnering with his Ospreys teammate George North in the midfield for the first two matches against Ireland and Scotland. Hawkins also started against England in the third match, forming a new centre partnership with Mason Grady, who was making his international debut. Interestingly, Hawkins and Grady had previously formed a midfield partnership at the U20 level.
In preparation for the 2023/2024 season, Hawkins made a move to Exeter Chiefs. However, despite his promising potential, Hawkins fell short of the 25 caps required to be based outside of Wales and still be eligible for national team selection. As a result, he was not named in the 2023 World Cup Training Squad. Hawkins cited contract negotiations and being significantly underpaid at the Ospreys, where he was still on an academy contract, as factors contributing to his decision to leave.
Rugby runs in Hawkins' family, with his grandfather Brian representing Wales Youth in 1970, although he did not earn a full senior cap. Additionally, both his father and uncle achieved caps at various levels for Wales, from U15 to U21. His father, David Hawkins, also played as a centre and had stints with Aberavon, Tonmawr, and Carmarthen Quins.
Joe Hawkins' career trajectory and performances at both the domestic and international levels highlight his potential as a rising star in Welsh rugby. With his skills, versatility, and determination, he is expected to make significant contributions to Exeter Chiefs and
KG(18/06/2023)
Career
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Exeter Chiefs Inside Centre |
2023 - present |
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Wales U20's Inside Centre |
2020 - 2022 |
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Wales Inside Centre |
2022 - 2023 |
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Ospreys Inside Centre |
2020 - 2023 |
