Football Victoria is proud to confirm that we have received four nominations for awards at the 2024 Victorian Sport Awards, including the Coach of the Year, Live Sporting Event of the Year, the Victorian Sports Administrator of the Year and the Local Government Initiative of the Year.
The event recognises and celebrates the achievements of our home-grown sporting heroes at both a grassroots and high-performance level.
A record 330 nominations were received from the Victorian sporting community, honouring those who have made an exceptional contribution to sport and recreation in Victoria during the previous calendar year.
Presented by the State Government of Victoria and VicSport, the VSAs will be held on Wednesday 14 May 2025, in the Members Dining Room at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Leasexpress Coach of the Year - Jimmy Soufis
Identifying a significant gap in the female player pathway, Jimmy Soufis conceptualised and spearheaded the creation of a Women’s Development League in 2024. He proactively supported its implementation and created development opportunities for players and coaches to progress their own skills and careers - an instrumental aspect in shaping the next generation.
Jimmy also found success on the field in 2024 with his men’s team finishing the Series Futsal League 2024.1 and 2024.2 seasons undefeated while his men’s and women’s teams claimed victory in the F-League tournament. Two of his male players were selected for national representation with the Futsalroos and a female player was chosen for the inaugural Australian Women’s Futsal National Team.
My Sport Live Community Sporting Event of the Year - Victorian Cup of Nations
Established in 2024, the 2025 Victorian Cup of Nations (VCON) celebrated Victoria’s diverse multicultural communities through a four-week tournament that provided players an inclusive platform to showcase their cultural backgrounds, talent and passion for the game.
257 players registered for the 7-a-side games, of which 220 had not played in previous Football Victoria competitions, 160 older adults participated in Walking Football and 105 children joined the pathway Global Football Program.
To support low socio-economic background participation, minimal entry fees and free uniforms/equipment were provided. Cultural food trucks and live performances with traditional music and dance showcased the rich heritage of participating communities and created a vibrant festival atmosphere that celebrated both football and culture.
revolutioniseSPORT Victorian Sports Administrator of the Year - Eunice Gill Award - Natalie Pafralis
In 2024, Natalie Pafralis played a key role in growing football participation and strengthening community connections. She coordinated the inaugural Victorian Cup of Nations (VCON), welcoming 257 players including 220 new to Football Victoria competitions, 160 older adults in Walking Football and 105 children in beginner-friendly football sessions while partnering with local councils and suppliers to provide free entry, uniforms, boots and shin guards which ensured all participants could fully engage in the competition.
She supported Victoria’s teams for the National Futsal Championships, overseeing logistics for 180+ players and worked collaboratively to secure free registration and waived entry fees for Victoria’s All Abilities team. Natalie also expanded grassroots opportunities by facilitating the entry of two new clubs into FV competitions in 2024.
Bunnings Trade Local Government Initiative of the Year - GO Family - Maribyrnong City Council
A six-week free program for children and parents of all skill levels to participate in fun, skill-building activities, GO Family is led by experienced coaches from Football Victoria and local clubs. Fostering a love for sport in a social, judgment-free environment, the program was made accessible as it was delivered at varying locations at varied times to accommodate diverse family schedules.
Parents also gained valuable coaching insights through the FV Club Coach Coordinator Program. From 150+ registrants, 83% stated the program allowed families to spend more time together and 80% said it encouraged them to be more active.
It's also important for us to highlight the spectacular work happening in our clubs across the state, and would like to congratulate the following nominations:
Love the Game Community Sporting Club of the Year - Fitzroy Lions Soccer Club
Under the shadows of the Fitzroy Commission Flats, Fitzroy Lions Soccer Club’s (FLSC) goal is to remove financial, cultural and/or logistical barriers that prevent young people from playing football.
More than 80% of the club’s members live in public housing and they have grown from 32 to 133 participants in five years while now possessing seven teams and a growing wait list.
They also run a Senior Men’s and Women’s team, All-Abilities program in partnership with Welcoming Australia, primary school outreach programs and engage 650+ young people annually through community events and leadership programs. FLSC also assists families with challenges including transport, subsidised fees and employment opportunities.
Gallagher Community Coach of the Year - Madelaine Breakspear
Nurturing the varied skill levels of the Sale United Football Club women’s team, Madelaine Breakspear recruited fresh players from a diverse age range (14-54) that included new mothers juggling kids or breastfeeding. With that diversity, instilled a sense of inclusiveness and camaraderie throughout the team.
In 2024 the club went back-to-back, winning the League Championship and Cup titles. Madelaine also coaches the Latrobe Valley Soccer League U18 girls who have made the last three Victorian Country Championship finals. Passionate about the womens game, she collaborates often with other coaches for advice, session planning and drill ideas while during Female Football Week, she instigated combined training sessions for junior girls and women.
For more details on the awards and a list of all nominees, head here.