Truganina Lions FC’s Jessica Hughes has been recognised as the 2026 Football Victoria Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding contribution to her club and the wider football community.
Hughes was honoured at the 2026 Victorian Football Gala at Crown Palladium on Friday, September 24, where she was presented with the award in front of a capacity crowd and given the opportunity to address those in attendance.
Accepting the award, Hughes thanked Football Victoria for recognising the contribution of volunteers across the state.
“Thank you for honouring me with this incredible award,” Hughes said.
“I would like to extend my thanks to Football Victoria for recognising the contributions of volunteers across our wonderful state.
“It is a pleasure to be here, thank you everyone.”
A member of the club’s Management Committee for the past two seasons, Hughes has played a key role in supporting the growth of Truganina Lions while helping create an environment where players and families from all backgrounds feel welcome.
Her work has extended well beyond match days, with Hughes involved in complaints management, community engagement, cultural celebrations, Community Fun Days and female-focused initiatives including the club’s Lionesses Movie & Pizza Night.
Her commitment to growing the women’s and girls’ game has also had a significant impact at Truganina Lions, with the club’s girls program growing from three teams to eight.
Female participation at the club has increased from 40 players last season to more than 100 this year, while the club has grown to 43 teams.
Hughes has also helped support the club’s focus on education, respect and inclusion, with more than 450 members completing Football Victoria Respect & Responsibility workshops, alongside 22 coaches gaining accreditation and 20 new referees being trained.
Away from the numbers, Hughes has become a familiar and supportive presence around the club, mentoring young players, coaches and volunteers while helping families from different cultural backgrounds feel part of the Truganina Lions community.