On Friday night, the winners of the 2020 Bendigo Community Awards Program were announced shortly before kick-off of the NPL Grand Final.
Football South Australia, in partnership with Bendigo Bank, established the Bendigo Bank Community Awards Program to recognise the valued contribution of volunteers, coaches, referees and clubs to the sport of football in South Australia.
The winners below will receive a cash prize from Bendigo Bank
Volunteer of the Year - $500
Coach of the Year - $500
Referee of the Year - $500
Club of the Year - $100
Congratulations to the following winners.
Bendigo Bank Community Volunteer of the Year | Adrian D'Alfonso
Angelo D’Alfonso, a long time volunteer at Western Strikers, has been instrumental in the club’s facility upgrade, working tirelessly to secure funding, coordinate trades and provide additional support throughout the project. Angelo’s time, effort and passion for the club has been outstanding, providing a platform for future growth that will not only benefit the club but the broader community for years to come.
Bendigo Bank Community Coach of the Year | Jonathan Gomez
A former player at the club himself, Jonathan Gomez currently coaches the Adelaide Hills Hawks U16 boys, a group he has nurtured since they were playing as Under 9’s. Jonathan has maintained his passion and drive over many years, demonstrating a holistic approach to coaching, which aims to provide guidance for his players both on and off the field. His honesty and respectfulness ensures he’s able to foster meaningful relationships with players and parents alike, making him an extremely valued member of the Hawks community.
Bendigo Bank Community Referee of the Year | Anasta Savva
At just 17 years of age, Anasta shows passion and dedication beyond her years, which has earned her rights as the most appointed female referee in the Adelaide Hills this season, officiating more than 30 games. Upon attaining her Level 3 Referee Accreditation this year, Anasta has taken it upon herself to pass on her knowledge and experience through mentoring emerging referees. She is also an active member of the Adelaide Hills Referee Branch, volunteering her time to support the operations of her local association.
Bendigo Bank Community Club of the Year | Modbury Jets
Modbury Soccer Club is a true representation of an inclusive club, catering for junior girls and boys, senior women and men, as well as amateur teams. The Jets also open their doors to the wider community, welcoming inclusive programs, schools and other community groups to use their facility free of charge. Good governance and sustainability are a priority for the Modbury Soccer Club committee and this has been on show throughout the COVID-19 period, ensuring the game remains the number one priority while making sure all rules and regulations are adhered to.