Volunteer Hero of the week – Luke White
In this new weekly off-season feature we profile a club recipient of the Volunteer of the Year award to highlight the incredible work our volunteers do so that others can enjoy their footy.
First cab off the rank is Luke White from the Port Macquarie Junior Magpies where he is the club President and coach of the Under 11 Flyers team.
What do you love about volunteering?
I love spending time with my son and his mates play a game that I love. I love watching the kids gel together as a team and grow as footballers from the start to finish of the season.
What’s your favourite volunteering moment?
Watching one of our kids on the wing, as a high ball came towards them, they were on their own by about 20 metres and the ball bounced right behind them. This kid was looking the wrong way towards the crowd, then started flossing (that famous dance all parents love!), with no idea the ball was even there! All the parents and coaches were yelling telling this kid to turn around, which only seemed to encourage more rigorous flossing! After the moment passed and the other team ran away with the ball, we as coaches turned to each other laughing and said “Did that really just happen?”. Those sort of moments remind me these are 10 & 11 year old kids and not to take things too seriously!
What skills has volunteering helped you to develop?
I feel like I have learnt so much about our game, and an appreciation for how important a friendly and positive team culture is for kids playing sport, no matter their skill level.
How does your club support new volunteers?
Our club has been blessed with volunteers, both at committee level, training and for game day functions. All volunteers are welcomed and appreciated. We have many long standing committee members paving the way for the next generation of volunteers.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about volunteering?
I would say to give it a go. Your kid will love you being part of the team, no matter how big or small your role is. It is not a huge time commitment compared to the satisfaction you get out of being part of a good club.
What areas will your club be looking for help in 2020?
We are looking to build our youth girls numbers and get a team back on the field for 2020.
What do you love most about your footy club?
I love the fact you can stop and have a chat to anyone down at the club, we are a friendly bunch. The kids are well mannered and keen to learn, which creates a great fun environment. Coming from Western Australia and being a West Coast Eagles fan I never thought I would barrack for the Magpies but it’s growing on me!
The Port Macquarie Junior Magpies can be contacted at pmjafl@gmail.com if you would like to volunteer or need info on any other aspect of the club.