Footy volunteers recognised in Australia Day Honours

Friday, January 26

The SANFL congratulates the outstanding South Australian volunteers in football who have today been awarded Australia Day Honours.

Sturt Football Club’s Nick Swingler was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for his Services to Australian Rules Football, having been head trainer and medical co-ordinator for the Double Blues for more than four decades.

Nick works tirelessly with the Club’s medical team to get players ready for match day, with many players past and present owing their playing careers to his medical care. This will be Nick’s 45^th year involved with the Club.

Joining Nick in receiving OAM Honours for Service to the Community, including Australian football, are Diane Ranck and Craig Scott.

Diane is a former Board member and volunteer with South Adelaide Football Club and was instrumental in establishing the Club’s now longstanding partnership with Flinders University.

Craig’s significant contribution to community football saw him named as South Australia’s Australia Day Citizen of the Year in 2021. A Past President and Life Member of Goodwood Saints Football Club, he was integral in the Club establishing its successful female football program, as well as developing its Inclusive team for players with intellectual disability.

The SANFL also congratulates South Australian Bruce Carter who has been awarded an Officer of the Order (AO) for his outstanding service to the business community and charity, but also for his contribution to community football as a field umpire for the Adelaide Footy League for more than 20 years.

Port Adelaide Football Club President David Koch also has been fittingly recognised as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his Service to Media, including for his service to the Club since 2012.

We also congratulate and acknowledge all other volunteers in football across the State who have received awards for making a significant impact in their local communities.

2024 Australia Day Honours with a contribution to Australian Football in SA:

AO

Bruce Carter – Service to business, charity and the community, including 20-plus years as an Adelaide Football League field umpire.

AM

David Koch – Service to Media, with his career including service as President of Port Adelaide FC since 2012.

OAM

Nick Swingler – Service to Australian Rules Football, including 40+ years as Head Trainer/Medical Coordinator at Sturt FC.

Diane Ranck – Service to the Community, including as a volunteer with South Adelaide FC.

Craig Scott – Service to the Community, including as a Life Member and Past President of Goodwood Saints FC.