Forde Joins Hawks' University Pathway

Showing their commitment to developing young talent West Yorkshire Hawks have announced the signing of 19-year-old guard Josh Forde. Forde, the first player to benefit from the Hawks’ new partnership with the University of Huddersfield, is set to begin his studies in BSc Physiotherapy at the university. He will be balancing his academic pursuits with an intensive, multi-faceted basketball performance program that’s poised to fast-track his development.

Forde’s transition to the National Basketball League with Hawks comes on the heels of his experience with the Manchester Giants junior program and the Tameside Vikings’ U23s. A product of Manchester’s youth system, he’s already familiar with high-level competition. Now, he’s stepping into a dual role—representing the Hawks in the National League while simultaneously playing for the University of Huddersfield’s BUCS team under the tutelage of seasoned coach Adrian Willey.

The partnership with the university is groundbreaking for the Hawks, combining elite academics with a top-tier basketball development environment. Forde will not only have access to cutting-edge sports science, but also strength and conditioning sessions, physiotherapy, sports psychology, and nutritional support through the university’s new performance scholarship program. This blend of professional and academic resources sets a new standard for player development in West Yorkshire.

Josh Forde expressed his excitement about the move, recognising the challenge and growth it presents saying “The level of intensity Hawks train at will challenge me and will force me to get better. I am looking forward to learning from the experienced players alongside me.”

Head coach Danny Byrne also shared his enthusiasm about Forde’s potential saying “Josh is a great young talent, and we’re excited to see how far he can develop, both here at the Hawks and with the University of Huddersfield. His drive and work ethic are exactly what we look for in a player, and with the resources he has access to at the university and within our program, the sky’s the limit. We’re looking forward to watching his growth on both fronts and seeing him reach his full potential.“

Byrne’s remarks echo the sentiment throughout the Hawks’ organisation that this partnership with the University of Huddersfield is more than just about one player—it’s the foundation of a pathway that could revolutionise how local talent is developed. As the first player to step into this hybrid role, Forde represents the start of a new chapter for the West Yorkshire Hawks.