Father play soccer with sons. All happy and enjoy in nice spring sunset
Australians are being called upon to nominate local dads in the community for the 2024 Philips Community Sports Dad of the Year award – a national program celebrating Australia’s unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to support their local sporting teams.
With nominations now open until 18 August via sportsdads.com.au, the prestigious Award provides an opportunity to recognize those dads who make a difference just in time for Father’s Day on Sunday, 1 September 2024. Whether it be cheering from the sidelines to carpooling to games, coaching, or helping to raise funds for equipment, every little bit counts.
The winner will receive a Philips male grooming pack valued at over $1,000 RRP, as well as a $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to purchase new clothing or sporting equipment for the community sports club of choice.
Anthony Minichiello, Roosters legend, previous winner of the Philips Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year, and proud dad to a daughter emphasized the importance of the program in championing community involvement: “As a professional athlete and a dad, I know firsthand the positive impact sports can have on kids’ lives. The dads who volunteer their time at the grassroots level are the real MVPs. They’re shaping not just athletes but future leaders and all-around good people. I encourage everyone to nominate a deserving dad in their community for this award.”
Daly Cherry-Evans, 2023 Philips Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles Captain said that his family’s support made him the player he is today. He emphasized that all parents and volunteers should be celebrated for their dedication in growing the next generation in sport.
“I couldn’t have asked for more love and support from my parents,” Daly shared. “They got me to endless training sessions and would do whatever it took to make ends meet to give me the chance to go away for extra competitions or representative sides.
“We can’t do enough to recognize the work of our volunteers in sport. From the referees and coaches to the people in the canteen, they all make an impact on their club but also the next generation of athletes.”
Selected from thousands of entries, last year’s Philips Community Sports Dad winner, Greg McKervey from Cobar, NSW was nominated by a community local who recognized his commitment to mentoring Cobar’s youth through coaching, refereeing on game days and growing the Athletics and Triathlon scene in Cobar.
Humble McKervey who donated the prize to increase participation and purchasing new jerseys said: “If you find something you love doing, then volunteering is not work. It can be fun and rewarding. I just enjoy coaching and seeing our two clubs thrive, that’s all that I ask for!”
Nominations are now open and close midnight AEST on 18 August 2024.
To nominate a community sports dad, submit 100 words on why they should win via www.sportsdads.com.au. The winner will be notified prior to Father’s Day, Sunday, 1 September. Those who nominate the successful dad will also have the chance to win a Philips Multigroom prize ahead of Father’s Day.
To find out further information and/or to submit a dad who deserves to be recognized, visit www.sportsdads.com.au.