Nominate a ‘best off field’ footy hero now

By SANFL Media

SANFL is again recognising the tireless work of SA’s unsung footy heroes through the 2019 Statewide Super Volunteer of the Year Award.

SANFL Community Football Manager Matt Duldig said SANFL was pleased to acknowledge all the local legends who make the game of Australia Rules football great behind the scenes at grassroots level.

“Whether they be administrators, umpires, trainers, scoreboard attendants, timekeepers or work in the canteen or BBQ, now is the time to honour the unwavering loyalty of volunteers to your football club or league,” Mr Duldig said.

Nominations are closing soon for the SANFL Statewide Super Volunteer of the Year, with the eight finalists set to receive:

• Two tickets to the Magarey Medal Hall of Fame Presentation Dinner
• A night’s accommodation at a luxury Adelaide CBD hotel, including breakfast

The SA winner will also be named an AFL Volunteer of the Year award winner and receive:

• 2 x tickets to the Toyota AFL Grand Final
• 2 x return flights & accommodation for 3 nights in Melbourne for Toyota AFL Grand Final weekend
• The opportunity to walk in the Toyota AFL Grand Final Parade

Statewide Super CEO Tony D’Allesandro said football was an integral part of South Australian culture and would not be what it is today without the generosity of the many thousands of volunteers who are working behind the scenes.

“Volunteers dedicate their time and energy to make footy great in South Australia and we’re proud to partner with the SANFL Volunteers program,” he said.

2018 Statewide Super Volunteer of the Year finalist Adrian Wait has been a long-time volunteer at Peake & Districts Football Club, with his roles at the club including head trainer, committee member, equipment coordinator and game day manager since finishing his playing days some 15 years ago.

“I’m there from 9am to 6:30pm every Saturday across the four grades,” Adrian says, referring to the club’s junior and senior colts, as well as the two senior A and B grade sides in the Mallee Football League.

Every week, Adrian rolls up his sleeves to organise and provide equipment, strapping, massages and ice baths to support all players at the club each week. He also mentors and trains younger club members to develop their skills required to take on training duties.

“I consider myself lucky. The coaches back me 100 per cent and many blokes get in and help where they can,” he said.

If you know a deserving volunteer at your club like Adrian, nominate them now at www.sanfl.frmdv.com/volunteer. Nominations close on August 4.