Sale United FC’s Madelaine Breakspear has been honoured as the Gallagher Community Coach of the Year at the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards, held on Wednesday, May 14 in the Members’ Dining Room at the MCG.
Eighteen awards were presented on the night, celebrating the outstanding achievements of athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, administrators, media, and participation initiatives across Victoria’s sporting landscape.
For Breakspear, simply being nominated was an honour — winning was an unforgettable moment.
“I didn’t think I would win, so it was a really nice surprise on the night,” she said.
“I looked at the other finalists in my category and the incredible things they’ve achieved. It would’ve been a tough one to choose.”
The Gallagher Community Coach of the Year Award recognises a Victorian community coach who has made a significant contribution to their club, association, or district — with a focus on encouraging participation, fairness, integrity, and creating a welcoming and inclusive sporting environment.
Breakspear’s leadership at Sale United is a standout example of those values in action. She has built a supportive, inclusive culture within the women’s team, recruiting players ranging in age from 14 to 54 — including new mothers balancing family life and even breastfeeding between sessions. Her team reflects the spirit of grassroots football: welcoming, resilient, and united.
In 2024, Sale United’s women’s team went back-to-back, claiming both the League Championship and Cup titles. Beyond her club duties, Breakspear also coaches the Latrobe Valley Soccer League U18 Girls, who have reached the last three Victorian Country Championship finals.
A passionate advocate for women in football, Breakspear regularly collaborates with fellow coaches on session planning and drills. During Female Football Week, she organised combined training sessions for junior girls and women to foster intergenerational mentorship and connection.
As the first award of the evening, Breakspear had time to soak in the moment before heading back home on a three-hour drive — a six-hour round trip she shared with her husband.
“It was good to be able to relax a little bit after receiving the award and enjoy the night,” she said.
“It was inspiring to hear the achievements of so many athletes, coaches, and officials.”
Reflecting on the win, Breakspear said she hopes the recognition brings more visibility to community football — and especially to women in coaching.
“If this award brings more exposure to the sport and female football in particular, then it’s all worthwhile,” she said.
“Hopefully it encourages more women to get involved as coaches or volunteers, and gives girls the confidence to step up, challenge themselves, and lead.”
Breakspear also acknowledged the people and communities that support her journey.
“I want to thank my club Sale United, our club president, and my assistant coach Romy who’ve supported me over the past few years, as well as the Latrobe Valley Soccer League and my family,” she said.
Full list of football related finalists
- Leasexpress Coach of the Year - Jimmy Soufis*
- Bunnings Trade Local Government Initiative of the Year - Maribyrnong City Council GO Family
- Love the Game Community Sporting Club of the Year - Fitzroy Lions Football Club
- My Sport Live Community Sporting Event of the Year - VCON
- Polytan Peter Norman Inclusion Award - Big Issue Community Street Soccer
- revolutioniseSPORT Victorian Sports Administrator of the Year – Eunice Gill Award - Natalie Pafralis
*Won - Read the full story