The Football Victoria Community Awards serve as a prestigious platform dedicated to honoring the remarkable individuals, clubs, and initiatives that shape the vibrant and diverse world of Victorian football.
Celebrating the spirit of grassroots football, these awards acknowledge those who have made outstanding contributions to the growth and development of the game.
Volunteer of the Year: Laurel Irvine (Sale United FC) & Enrico Marrone (Whitehorse United SC)
For the first time, two winners were honored with the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award: Laurel Irvine and Enrico Marrone.
- Enrico Marrone, a founding member and long-serving president of Whitehorse United SC, has been a cornerstone of the club for 30 years. His leadership, commitment to securing new facilities, and efforts to introduce inclusive policies have fostered a thriving, welcoming community. Enrico's dedication is reflected in his daily involvement, from setting up grounds to creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued.
- Laurel Irvine has been instrumental at Sale United FC since 2008, volunteering over 30 hours weekly. Her efforts have significantly increased female participation and built an inclusive, welcoming environment at the club. Laurel's passion and leadership have created a thriving football community.
Community Male Coach of the Year: John Topic (Surf Coast Football Club)
The 2024 Community Male Coach of the Year award was presented to John Topic from Surf Coast FC. John is celebrated for his selflessness and dedication to women's and girls' football, having led his U15 girls' team to a strong season and his U13 girls' team to victory in the 2024 FV Girls Cup. John regularly steps in to coach other teams, including the women's team, making him an indispensable figure within both the club and the Geelong region.
Finalists: Glen Springate (Castlemaine Goldfields Football Club) and Ari Singer (Maccabi Caulfield Football Club)
Community Female Coach of the Year: Rebecca Berry (Strathfieldsaye Colts United FC)
The 2024 Community Female Coach of the Year was awarded to Rebecca Berry from Strathfieldsaye Colts United FC. Rebecca coaches both senior and reserve women’s teams, as well as the U16 Bendigo girls' representative team. She is celebrated for her success in leading back-to-back championship-winning teams, mentoring young coaches, and fostering an inclusive environment for all. Despite her own commitments as a VPL player, she continues to inspire and uplift her teams in Bendigo.
Finalists: Beth Milkins (Leongatha Knights FC) and Amy Crawford (Bentleigh Greens)
Female Football Champion of the Year: Michelle Williamson (Melton Phoenix FC)
The 2024 Female Football Champion of the Year award was presented to Michelle Williamson, president of Melton Phoenix FC. Michelle has been a transformative leader, guiding the club through remarkable growth and achieving 50/50 gender equity on the board. Her hands-on leadership style, which includes coaching and daily operations, has empowered individuals from all backgrounds. A former Victoria representative, Michelle is recognized for her commitment to inclusivity and community engagement, ensuring the club thrives as a beacon of excellence in football.
Finalists: Bonnie Lucas (Warrnambool Wolves Football Club) and Tracey Leyton (Chelsea Football Club)
