Fitzroy FC’s Danny McNamara named 2022 Hostplus Volunteer of the Year

October 15, 2022

By SANFL Media

SANFL is pleased to announce that Danny McNamara of Fitzroy Football Club has won the 2022 Hostplus Volunteer of the Year Award for his outstanding contribution to grassroots community football.

Danny was presented with his award before approximately 400 people at the SANFL Community Football Volunteer Awards ceremony at Adelaide Oval on Friday night which recognised the tremendous contribution of dedicated volunteers at their local football club or league throughout the State in 2022.

Over many years at Fitzroy Football Club, Danny has had a significant positive impact on the lives of many in his local community, particularly junior players and migrants.

In nominating Danny for the award, the Club said he had been instrumental in assisting Fitzroy Football Club – which now boasts more than 500 members – to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Personally responsible for the wellbeing of players, coaches, team managers and support staff with his tireless dedication, Danny makes everyone at the Club feel welcome and part of the community.

His efforts have ensured a healthy growth in participation in junior football at the club, with junior girls heavily encouraged to participate in football.

In accepting his award, Danny thanked Hostplus and SANFL for their recognition of volunteers and his club committee and fellow volunteers at Fiztroy Football Club.

“I’ve been volunteering for almost 50 years. I do it because I love developing and supporting kids and because I love footy,” he said.

Now in its sixth year, the SANFL Hostplus Volunteer of the Year Award aims to highlight those individuals who have provided outstanding voluntary service to community football in South Australia.

Hostplus Chief Executive Officer David Elia said Danny was a great ambassador for the tens of thousands of dedicated and passionate volunteers right across South Australian community football.

“On behalf of Hostplus, I offer my congratulations to Danny and acknowledge his remarkable contribution to growing participation at the Fitzroy Football Club,” Mr Elia said.

As has become tradition, Danny was awarded the David Shipway AM Medal and the title of SANFL Hostplus Volunteer of the Year. He was presented with the award by David Shipway, who is SANFL’s Community Football Ambassador.

In recognition of his outstanding efforts, Danny also has won the following prizes:

• 1 night’s accommodation for two people at the Serafino Winery McLaren vale, including a 3-course dinner and breakfast. During the stay, the winner will be provided a brand-new luxury Kia vehicle to explore the famous wine region in style.
• 2 x Adelaide Oval Football Memberships, including reserved seats to all AFL Home games (excluding finals) in season 2023.
• A $200 e-gift voucher redeemable anywhere in Australia where Mastercard is accepted, courtesy of the AFL.