Callum Hawkins reached his 100th appearance for Leamington during the weekend, as his side secured a 2-1 victory against King's Lynn Town in the ISUZU FA Trophy. This win marked Callum's milestone of 100 competitive games for Leamington. Let's reflect on the journey that led Callum to this achievement.
Arriving on loan from Burton Albion until the end of the 2021/22 season, Hawkins played his first game for Leamington on 22nd February 2022 in their National League North fixture against Chester. Leamington secured a 3-0 win, with Callum delivering an impeccable performance to keep a clean sheet on his debut. When reflecting on his first match, we asked Hawkins' his thoughts:
"I still fondly remember my debut, I didn't have much to do in the game overall but I felt like a sense of belonging at the club with the warm welcoming from everyone on and off the pitch"
Following his draw with Chester, Hawkins went on to play in 10 more games that season, marking his debut season in National League North football and gathering these overall statistics:
11 : Appearances
7 : Goals Conceded
5 : Clean Sheets
At the commencement of the 2022/2023 season, Callum joined on a season-long loan spell at Leamington, a move that initially proved to be highly successful. His performances on the pitch were commendable, leading to the Brakes boasting one of the best defences in the National League North that season. However, fate took a cruel turn when Hawkins sustained a severe ACL injury during a fateful match against Blyth Spartans on the 4th February 2023.
The injury, a significant setback in Callum's career, forced him to endure a grueling recovery process that spanned over 7 months. This unfortunate incident prematurely ended his season, leaving him sidelined and unable to contribute to the team's efforts on the pitch. Despite the challenges he faced, Callum's resilience and determination shone through as he focused on his rehabilitation with unwavering dedication which saw him recover in great time (Find more on Callum's journey here)
During his season at Leamington, Callum made a total of 27 appearances, conceding only 26 goals throughout the season and managing to secure 9 clean sheets, a testament to his reliability between the posts.
Following Callum's injury, Leamington faced a difficult period that culminated in their relegation to the Southern Premier League Central. Despite the disappointment of the team's relegation, Hawkins remained a supporter of The Brakes, offering his support from the sidelines as he continued his journey towards full recovery.
Hawkins discussed with us his experience of the 2022/23 season and how it unfolded for him:
"Obviously the glaring thing that comes from that season is my injury and the club being relegated, I did have days back when I was injured where I wished that I could be out there helping the boys but it made me all the more determined to get back out on the pitch as soon as possible. I don't regret anything from that season, we had a good team that season but we just couldn't get across the line and stay in the National League North."
"I was itching to get back onto the pitch throughout my rehab, I had to be held back a few times because I was wanting to do more than I was allowed to do at points but I guess that's just a part of wanting to play football. I knew that I could get back fit, I'd conquered it before so it was just another bump in the road that I had to overcome."
After a long injury, Hawkins was let go by Burton Albion in the summer of 2023. This meant that Callum was without a team for the 23/24 season, however he was still undergoing rehabilitation with Burton. It wasn't until October 2023 that he secured a permanent deal with Leamington. Here are his thoughts on the matter:
"I had a few chats with the Gaffer (Paul Holleran) during my rehab process and he was keen to see me back playing, I've said this many times that he is one of the best managers I have worked with and one of the reasons why is the way he treats his players and the way he looked after me was amazing. So when he asked me to sign for the club permanently is was a no-brainer for me because I knew we had unfinished business to get us back to the National League North."
Leamington successfully made their way back to the National League North, marking a triumphant return to the coveted league. The journey to this achievement culminated in a thrilling Play-Off Final victory over AFC Telford United in May 2024, a match that will be etched in the memories of fans for years to come. Throughout the 2023/24 season, the goalkeeper Hawkins showcased exceptional skill and dedication, featuring in a total of 34 games for The Brakes. His outstanding performance on the pitch saw him concede a mere 24 goals while securing an impressive 14 clean sheets. This incredible display of goalkeeping following a serious injury not only contributed significantly to the team's success but also earned Hawkins the prestigious Golden Glove award, a well-deserved recognition of his unwavering commitment. Callum reflected on that season with us and pointed out the highlights that were most memorable to him:
"I didn't know what to expect when I came back from injury, I felt sharp but you never know how you will feel being in a game situation but once I stepped back on the pitch for the first time in 7 months those doubts were crushed."
"From that first game onwards, I was really enjoying my football. We had a winning culture at the club that pushed us into the position in the playoffs. That last stretch of games stands out for me - the joys of making the playoffs on the final day and securing a home game in the semi-final, to watching (AFC) Sudbury secure their place in the league for another year was a standout day. Then the playoffs themselves, the semi-final win over Redditch in extra time, and the final away at Telford were games I'll never forget. To celebrate with the fans that supported us throughout the whole season made every second of the rehab worth it to me."
Hawkins' unwavering commitment to Leamington extended into the 2024/25 season, marking a significant milestone as the club ventured into their inaugural year back in the National League North. Surpassing the 100-game mark, Hawkins' has featured in 18 games during the season so far. Throughout this period, Callum and his Leamington teammates showcased their prowess on the pitch, demonstrating their rightful place in the league through a series of outstanding performances. Their togetherness not only earned them victories but also left fans in awe as they overcome some seemingly formidable opponents.
We asked Callum to provide a summary of his reflections on his 100 matches with Leamington, and here is his response:
"It has been a long journey to 100 games but I have enjoyed every second of it, even when times got tough there wasn't a day where I thought about giving up. I enjoy every moment because nothing is given to you, you have to earn it so I will continue to give 100% and try to give back the joy that the club has given to me over the past few years."
Hawkins will face Chester in his 101st game, the team that he faced in his first game for The Brakes as they look to build off the win in his 100th game
Hawkins' total stats after 100 appearances are:
100 : Appearances
87 : Goals Conceded
36 : Clean Sheets
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