Jatinder Singh Aashat journey in community sport started long before the creation of Tarneit North Football Club.
As part of National Volunteer Week, Jatinder Singh Aashat story highlights the commitment, and sacrifice volunteers make behind the scenes to help grassroots football thrive.
After spending more than a decade involved in community sport, Singh saw an opportunity to create something new in Melbourne’s west when discussions began around establishing a football club in Tarneit North Football Club.
Following meetings with council and support from family & friends and community members, the foundations for the club quickly began to form.
Launching a new grassroots club from scratch was no small task. Singh worked closely with Wyndham council, volunteers and local football figures to help establish the club’s structure, while also personally speaking with families interested in joining.
“We ran different social media campaigns targeted around the area and got more than 200 enquiries,” Singh said.
“I spoke to every parent one-on-one, so they understood about this club and how it was going to work, out & vision about community first .”
While Singh serves as President, his volunteer commitments extend far beyond football. He also runs a non-profit Brothers and Sisters Foundation, volunteers weekly in temples and community centres, and serves as a Justice of the Peace.
“My family has always helped the community,” Singh said.
“I think that belief came from my father and that’s why I always want to put my hand up and support people.”
Despite balancing work, family and community commitments, Singh estimates he dedicated nearly 40 hours a week to the club for first 3 months and still work 3-4h every day.
“There’s a lot of work every club needs volunteers for,” he said.
“Currently because the infrastructure is not ready, we have to lock goals, open goals, do setup ground and then pack up & clean up. These clubs honestly are not a small operation, and they cannot run by only the executive team.”
One of the proudest moments for Singh has been seeing families embrace the club and volunteers step forward to support its growth.
“After a lot of meetings with parents, we got nearly 25 volunteers from around 70 parents,” he said.
“We got coaches, team managers and people helping in different areas. It’s not only me working hard, but also every family member and volunteer who put their hand up.”
For Singh, however, the real reward comes from seeing children connected to football and enjoying the game in a positive environment.
“The biggest reward for me is seeing the kids and families connected with football,” he said.
“We want these kids to grow with the game and maybe one day represent Australia or become big names.”
One of Singh’s biggest focuses moving forward is increasing opportunities for girls in football, with plans already underway to launch dedicated female programs within the club.
“That is one of the biggest goals we have. Once we see those numbers increase, I will really feel rewarded for all the hard work,” he said.
As part of National Volunteer Week, Singh hopes more people recognise the important role volunteers play within grassroots football and feel encouraged to contribute to their local clubs.
“Volunteering your time is actually going to help a lot of kids in the future,” he said.
“Without volunteers, clubs are nothing,” he said.
“We need volunteers. Whether it’s coaches, team managers or helping set up goals and equipment, every role matters.
“Volunteering your time can help so many kids in the future. Without volunteers, clubs are nothing.”
“Grassroots football survives because ordinary people give their time with extraordinary heart.”
“Every volunteer helps build more than a club, they help build confidence, discipline and a better future for our kids.”