Club volunteers shine so others can play

Community footy doesn’t happen without the tireless efforts of club volunteers – whether that’s committee members, coaches and team managers, Auskick Co-ordinators, umpires, or game day volunteers.

Finding new volunteers is an ongoing challenge, so retaining existing club volunteers is a priority. The AFL North Coast Education Roadshows that ran in Coffs Harbour and Tamworth over the weekend were specifically designed to provide key volunteers with training, resources, and acknowledgment to set them up for the season ahead and ensure their season runs as smoothly as possible.

Over 50 administrators, coaches, and Auskick Co-ordinators came to the Education Roadshows, once again demonstrating their passion and commitment to providing the best environment possible for the club’s members.

“Our sport is extremely lucky to have such a high standard of volunteers who go above and beyond to make sure that people who want to play AFL can do so in a club environment that’s welcoming, safe, and inclusive,” said Paul Taylor, Community Football Manager.

“Many of these volunteers hold multiple roles because their focus is on making sure that no aspect of the club’s operations is missed. They come along to days like the Education Roadshow because they want to do each of their roles to the best of their ability and are keen to learn and improve.

“We’re so appreciative of the efforts of all of our volunteers, and thank them for everything they’ll do to make sure the coming season is the most successful ever on the North Coast.”

The best way for club members and their families to thank volunteers is to offer to help. All clubs are looking for volunteers to fill a wide variety of roles, ranging from committee positions, to coaching, managing, and umpiring roles, through to match day roles such as Ground Manager, First Aid, canteen operations, and ground set-up and pack-down.

The 2023 season will be characterised by unprecedented growth , which means more volunteers are needed at each club. To find the contact at your club to reach out and offer your help, please click here.