Hall of Fame

Gai Taylor

Year Inducted: 2014

Being part of the inaugural Hornets (formally Region 5) Womens Open team in 1984, Gai Taylor was the only female from the country to take part in the 1984 NSW Womens Open side, setting the benchmark high for female players to come.

She was a dominating player out of the link position with her long and powerful stride that consistently took the best defenses at the highest level apart. Her defensive play was also exceptional with an uncanny ability to stop all manner of attacking raids through her reading of the game. She is also one of the nicest women you will meet belaying her fierce determination and will to win. Indeed, her longevity and commitment cannot be questioned.

She represented NSW from 1985 to 1991 in Opens and some further 8 years in senior SOO.

Having played in the first ever Women’s test match against New Zealand in 1986, Taylor went on to become one of the most capped Australian Women’s representatives of all time, with 30 caps for Australia (26 World Cup Games, and 4 Test Matches), captaining her teams at various times.

Taylor played in three World Cups for Australia, in 1988, 1997 and 1999, as well as playing in the 1986 and 1988 Test matches against New Zealand and Canada.

Gai Taylor is the only touch player in the Hunter Sporting Hall of Fame. And has also succeeded to be inducted into Maitland, Hornets, NSW & Australian touch halls’ of fame over recent years, respectively.

Dean McManus

Year Inducted: 2014

Deano came onto the touch scene a little later in his life and during his career dominated all challenges amongst the senior ranks. Kick-starting his representative career for Hornets (Region 5) in 1985 as a Men’s Open Player, ‘Deano’ worked his way up the touch football ranks to shine above so many others as a key player in the game of touch.

His debut for NSW was in 1990 in the Men’s 30 division, where he made immediate impact as a player who could read the game like few before him. Throughout his career at the top level he demonstrated that while possessing skills that allowed him to play the game two touches in front of his opponents he was also the consummate team man, ensuring that the goals of the team were always placed ahead of his own personal goals. With great acceleration and a deft passing game he constantly threatened any defensive line.

Attending 5 Touch World Cups (as of 2015), McManus is one of the longest serving international players in which Australia has to boast about. Captaining the Mens 35’s in 1997, Vice Captain in 1999 and 2015 he has racked up a total of 44 international caps, representing Australia.

His ability to read play not only made him a danger in attack, coupled with his acceleration it made him into one of the games safest defenders. Ask any whom have been lucky enough to play also side him and they will tell you he is their first pick every time. Blessed with talent, he is also a humble man who is one of our games true gentleman.

Dean McManus was named in the Wallsend Mens Team of the Quarter Century, Maitland, Hornets, and NSW Touch Halls’ of Fame.

Dean Wilbow

Year Inducted: 2015

Dean Wilbow, known to many as “Pumper,” is a legendary figure in the Hornets Touch community. Over his playing career, Dean demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment, and leadership, becoming a cornerstone of the Hornets Touch team. His dedication on and off the field greatly contributed to the club’s success and reputation for excellence.

Between 1990 and 1995, Dean also represented New South Wales 54 times and proudly wore the Australian jersey in international competition. His impressive achievements at both club and representative levels reflect his passion for the game and his influence on those around him.

Dean’s 2015 induction into the Hornets Touch Hall of Fame honors not only his outstanding playing career but also his lasting impact on the region’s culture and the broader touch football community.

Sandra Clark

Year Inducted: 2016

Sandra Clark’s outstanding contributions to touch football as a referee have earned her a well-deserved place in the Hall of Fame. Renowned for her fairness, sharp judgment, and deep understanding of the game, Sandra has been a guiding presence on the field, ensuring the highest standards of officiating throughout her career.

Over many years, Sandra officiated at numerous high-profile matches, including state and national competitions, where her professionalism and calm authority earned respect from players, coaches, and fellow referees alike. Beyond her on-field excellence, Sandra has been instrumental in mentoring and developing the next generation of referees, helping to elevate the quality and consistency of officiating across the sport.

Her 2016 induction celebrates Sandra Clark’s dedication, integrity, and lasting impact on touch football refereeing, solidifying her legacy as one of the game’s most influential officials.

Kellie-Jean Johnston

Year Inducted: 2016

Kellie-Jean Johnston has been a dedicated force in Touch Football for over 40 years, beginning her journey in Wallsend at age 12 after encouragement from her father, the late Harold “Puddy” Miller. From those early days to an exceptional representative career, Kel has proudly worn the Wallsend and Hornets colours nearly every year since 1991.

Her accolades include multiple National Touch League titles, State Cup victories, and longstanding NSW State of Origin representation since 2008. A career highlight came in 2010 when she represented Australia in the victorious Trans-Tasman Series.

Touch Football is a true family affair for Kel—she met her husband Wayne through the sport, and their daughters now follow in their footsteps. Her Hall of Fame induction honours a lifetime of passion, leadership, and excellence in the game.

Brent Powell

Year Inducted: 2016

Brent Powell, affectionately known by his nickname “Evil,” has been a pillar of the Hornets Touch community and an outstanding figure in the broader touch football scene. Starting his playing career in the early 1990s, Brent quickly made a name for himself with his skill, leadership, and fierce competitiveness.

Throughout his impressive career, Brent represented Australia at the Touch Football World Cup in the Mixed Open division in 2003 and the Men’s 35s in 2015. He proudly wore the New South Wales jersey across multiple divisions, including Men’s 20s in 1994 and 1996, Mixed Open in 2002, 2004, and 2006, Men’s 30s in 2008, and Men’s 35s in 2014.

In 2005, Brent’s exceptional talent was recognized when he won the prestigious Boland Medal while representing the Central Coast Dolphins Touch Football Association. His commitment to the sport extended beyond his representative honors, as he played a vital role in mentoring younger players and fostering a strong, inclusive team culture at Hornets Touch.

Brent’s impact on the club and the sport has been profound. His dedication, competitive spirit, and leadership earned him a well-deserved place in the Hornets Touch Hall of Fame in 2016, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s most respected and influential figures.