FALCONS SIGN LEICESTER HOOKER
Hawkins, 31 today, was an Aviva Premiership winner with Leicester last term, coming off the bench for Tom Youngs for his second Premiership final outing as Richard Cockerill’s men defeated Northampton Saints 37-17 at Twickenham. His first final came in 2011 with the Tigers narrowly beaten 22-18 against Saracens.
Making 61 appearances for the East Midlands club since his move from Bath Rugby in the summer of 2010, the former England Under-21 featured in Saturday’s 27-15 victory over London Wasps, a result which tightened the Tigers’ grip on a place in the top four.
The Taunton-born front-rower also has Heineken Cup experience and scored a try in Leicester’s 2011 quarter-final against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium.
As well as lifting the Aviva Premiership, Hawkins picked up an LV= Cup winners medal in 2012 before his season was cut short after suffering an elbow injury in the final against Northampton.
Prior to his switch to Welford Road, the 6ft, 15st 5lb scrummager spent seven seasons with Bath where he competed with Pieter Dixon and Lee Mears for a first team place.
“I’m really excited about my move up to Newcastle and it is a fresh challenge I am looking forward to,” said Hawkins.
“I’ve spoken to Dean [Richards] and I was very impressed with his plans for the club – his record in the game speaks for itself.
“Hopefully I can finish the season on a high with Leicester and help the club lift the Aviva Premiership for the second year in a row,” added Hawkins.
Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said: “Rob is an extremely talented hooker and his vast experience at this level will be invaluable for the club.
“We have a series of youngsters coming through the ranks at the moment and his knowledge and understanding of the game will be a huge benefit to them as they learn their trade in the Aviva Premiership.”
