Female Football Week continues to shine a spotlight on the people driving the growth, inclusion, and impact of women’s football across the state, with this year’s award winners highlighting extraordinary stories of leadership, resilience, and community spirit.
Across coaching, refereeing, playing, volunteering and broader community impact, the 2026 award recipients represent the very best of Victorian football and the values that continue to strengthen the game at all levels.
FFW Volunteer of the Year – Brooke Wyatt (Trafalgar Victory FC)
Brooke Wyatt has been recognised for her tireless and often unseen work that underpins the day-to-day running of Trafalgar Victory FC. From coordinating MiniRoos and match days to organising presentations, team photos, and club events, Brooke has become a central figure in the club’s operations.
Her impact extends well beyond administration, playing a key role in driving recruitment, helping the club field new junior teams, supporting the women’s program, and creating a welcoming, family-friendly environment at the club. Her commitment has helped strengthen participation and connection across all levels of the club community.
FFW Community Champion of the Year – Karishma “Rish” Wijeyesinghe (Victoria Park FC)
Karishma Wijeyesinghe has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to Victoria Park FC, where she serves as Senior Women’s Liaison Officer, voting committee member, captain, and a driving force behind the club’s women’s program.
Balancing a demanding professional career alongside her extensive football involvement, Rish has been instrumental in growing the women’s game at the club through coaching support, player onboarding, digital management, and behind-the-scenes organisation.
FFW Player of the Year – Chelsea Phillips (Mt Eliza SC)
As captain of Mt Eliza SC’s U18 team, Chelsea has played a key role in one of the club’s most successful junior periods. However, her journey over the past year has extended far beyond football, as she faced a serious neurological health condition that temporarily affected her vision and mobility.
Despite these challenges, Chelsea has demonstrated remarkable strength, continuing to attend training and matches in a leadership capacity while supporting her teammates from the sidelines. Her determination, positivity, and presence have had a profound impact on her club and wider football community.
FFW Referee of the Year – Hannah Riess
has been recognised as one of Gippsland’s most promising and respected young referees, earning praise for her professionalism, composure, and rapid development.
Her performances have seen her progress to officiating at NPL Women’s Under 20 level, where she continues to demonstrate strong game management and consistency beyond her years.
Beyond match days, Hannah is highly regarded for her mentorship and support of emerging referees, helping to foster a more inclusive and encouraging refereeing environment. Her leadership, humility, and commitment to improvement have made her a standout figure within the refereeing community.
FFW Coach of the Year – Natasha Groves (Darebin Falcons)
Natasha “Tash” Groves has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to coaching and participation pathways at Darebin Falcons.
Across 2025, Tash has coached across multiple teams and programs, including junior, senior, and women’s social football, while also undertaking her own coaching development through advanced accreditation courses.
Her impact is defined not only by football development, but by her ability to create safe, inclusive, and welcoming environments for women and girls to engage with the game. Through programs like PlayHER, she has helped transform participation experiences and build strong, confident communities within the club.