WA Football

WEST Perth District Volunteer Darryl Sanders was recognised for more than 15 years of dedicated service when he was named the 2011 WA Football Volunteer of the Year at the WAFL’s Sandover Medal count (Monday, September 19).

Mr Sanders was announced as the overall winner from 17 regional and district finalists and more than 850 nominees. He received a trip for two to the AFL grand final and will also march in the Grand Final parade and attend a Grand Final breakfast function.

Mr Sanders was nominated for the award by West Perth District Manager Andrew Ridley, who said his love of the game had stood the test of time, seeing him continue his involvement with football long after his son had finished playing Auskick.

"For more than 15 years, Darryl Sanders has spent countless hours a week as a volunteer for the West Perth football district and in clubs within our District – notably his time at the Whitford JFC," Mr Ridley said.

"Darryl was awarded life membership of Whitfords JFC in 1999 and during his time at the club took on the roles of club president and secretary for a combined total of 10 years before becoming involved with the Junior Competition Committee in 2006. He is the current junior competition director for the district.

"In 2010 Darryl was awarded life membership of the West Perth DFDC for his service where he has held the position of Competition Director for more than five years.

"Darryl would easily contribute in excess of 20 hours volunteering for football each week during the season and 10+ even through the summer months. The work this individual does is spectacular. He has a true love of the game, a passion and wants to make a positive difference.

"It takes a special kind of volunteer to become involved at a District and Commission level where they sometimes come under a lot of pressure. It’s remarkable when people whose own children go through the club and no longer play football choose to remain in a club environment. It’s an awe-inspiring thing and the game certainly owes them a mark of respect," he said.

WA Football Commission Club Development and Coaching Co-ordinator Glenn Morley congratulated Mr Sanders on winning the award and emphasized the crucial role that volunteers play at all levels of football.

"WA has more than 46,000 volunteers participating every week in the game at all levels and without them the game would be lost. There are so many aspects of our game that just wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and commitment of our volunteers," Mr Morley said.

"Volunteers are involved at all levels whether it’s in the canteen, umpiring, peeling oranges, coaching or driving their kids to the game. The WA Football Volunteer of the Year program aims to elevate the standing of volunteers to that of a star. Just like you have star players and star coaches we want to recognise star volunteers."