Abermain Rams earned statewide recognition last month after being named a finalist for NSW Community Club of the Year at the 2026 Sport NSW Community Sports Awards.
Although the club did not take home the award, reaching the final recognised the work it has done to build a stronger, safer and more inclusive football community.
Abermain Rams has transformed its facilities and club culture over the last two years. The improvements have created a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone involved in the club and helped drive an increase in female participation.
The nomination celebrated the club's commitment to growing participation and creating an inclusive football community. It also recognised the club's focus on developing volunteers, improving facilities and building strong partnerships that have helped create a safe and welcoming environment for players, coaches, officials, volunteers and families.
The club also introduced a Female Football Strategy and appointed a dedicated coordinator to ensure women and girls felt supported on and off the field. Women now make up 50 per cent of the club's committee, reflecting Abermain Rams’ commitment to inclusion and strong leadership.
Beyond the infrastructure upgrades, the club strengthened its governance and long-term planning through Football Australia's Club Changer program. The framework helped the club develop a clear vision focused on participation, safeguarding, coach development, player retention and community engagement.
The Community Sports Awards recognised those efforts, along with the dedication of the volunteers who continue to grow the club and create opportunities for others.
Reflecting on the achievement, the club shared on social media:
"Community clubs don't succeed because of facilities or awards. They succeed because of people who genuinely care about creating opportunities for others."
The recognition continued after the awards when Cessnock MP Clayton Barr formally acknowledged Abermain Rams in state parliament.
The club said the honour belonged to everyone who had supported the Rams over the years.
"This recognition isn't just for our committee. It belongs to every person who has worn the Rams colours, cheered from the sidelines, volunteered their time or supported our club over the years," Abermain Rams President Leonie Winner said.
While the finalist honour recognised the club's recent achievements, it also highlighted the lasting impact Abermain Rams continues to make in its community. Through improved facilities, inclusive programs and passionate volunteers, the club is creating opportunities for more people to enjoy football for years to come.