Northern NSW Football is thrilled to announce the recipients of its Local Champion Awards for June 2024.
The NNSWF Local Champion Awards are a monthly recognition of individuals and teams who make a difference across the football family as we thank them for their commitment to their club, team, community, and football.
Club of the Month
North United FC
North United FC President Hailey Cameron has played a key part in her club’s recent increased participation rates.
This season, they have hit the ground running by increasing registrations by a 9 per cent.
The club’s dedication to providing more opportunities to female players, has resulted in a 28 per cent increase in female registrations.
NUFC is the first club in Armidale to sign up for the Club Changer program and the first to have two senior women’s teams.
The club’s involvement in the Play Our Way Grant Program has allowed them to upgrade their facilities, resulting in an improved environment for players.
The club's first female president, Cameron, initially took on the role in 2023 to create a positive environment for women in football.
“Being able to make a positive change in female football is number one” Cameron said.
“Inspiring junior girls who can come and watch senior women play and creating an environment that is encouraging of females is leading the club to succeed.”
Initially underestimating the amount of work needed in this role, Cameron was eager to take on the challenges and advocate for women football.
“This is not a one-person job; I have to thank the entire committee at North United FC, without the whole committee we wouldn’t be able to do what we do” Cameron said.
With hopes to attend the Women’s State Cup, NUFC endeavours to continue provide many more opportunities for female players in the region.
Volunteer of the Month
Jillian McTaggert
Jillian is a vital member of the South Cardiff Community FC committee and holds the role of Member Protection Information Officer.
With a small committee, Jillian’s role extends beyond what is expected of her, going above and beyond to coordinate team kits, referees and game leaders.
She is consistently seen with an infectious smile on her face as she organises players, parents, game leaders and volunteers.
Jillian tirelessly prioritises the wellbeing of players at South Cardiff Community FC, ensuring they feel supported, confident and well cared for through her mentorship.
She is an individual who works diligently to create a nurturing environment for the kids, organising end of season gifts and presentation ceremonies for all the players.
Parents of the club say they would be lost without everything that Jillian does for the community.
She has shown unwavering commitment to the club, exemplifying dedication and selflessness.
Coach of the Month
Blake Sibbald
Blake coaches at Tilligerry United FC in charge of the Friday night All Age Women’s team and three of the senior women’s teams.
With the AAW team moving up to A grade, he has helped calm their nerves and offer words of encouragement.
Blake has been a key factor in promoting female participation this season, creating more spaces for women.
As a great leader, his teams have nothing but respect for the work he does and the positive environment he provides.
Blake shows immeasurable levels of dedication, patience, leadership and support for everyone to get involved in the game, giving up three days a week for training and game days.
Thanks to coaches like Blake, football teams like the AAW team thrive.
Player of the Month
Otis Morphett
Otis is a six-year-old who represents Maitland Junior FC proudly, playing in the under-8s division.
He has been described as a delightful young boy who displays incredible skill and understanding of the game.
Otis continuously shows humility and professionalism even when faced with challenging scenarios.
His passion and dedication are second to none, volunteering to be ball boy as rain poured down on the field in the past month.
Otis conveys a level of kindness and genuine interest in others off the field as well, greeting everyone warmly and always being open for a chat.
He has a bright football future ahead of him.
Referee of the Month
Drew De Silva
Drew is a third-year match official who referees across Football Mid North Coast.
He consistently explains decisions to players and shows a strong understanding of the rules of the game.
By attending referee development camps and the regional match official development program, Drew has made a conscious effort to continue to develop his skills.
He has been appointed to control all age local senior games as well as Premier Youth League Girls and Premier Youth League Boys matches, demonstrating his expertise.
Drew continues to show remarkable communication skills, strong decision making, and is a passionate member of the football community.
Team of the Month
Tuncurry Foster Tigerettes Black Women’s
Tuncurry Foster Tigerettes Black Women’s team embodies true resilience and determination on the field.
Despite a challenging season in 2023, they managed to turn it all around and improve their skills, as they sit fourth on the table with 16 goals in the 2024 season.
Every player is eager to learn, always trying their best at training to be the best they can be.
The team fosters an inclusive culture and environment, making every game a positive experience.
Northern NSW Football General Manager Member Services Ross Hicks congratulated the recipients and thanked them for their contributions to football in northern NSW.
“Without people like Jillian McTaggert, Blake Sibbald, Otis Morphett and Drew De Silva as well as clubs like North United FC and teams like Tuncurry Forster FC we wouldn’t have a game. They make football what it is in our region,” Hicks said.
“It is the recipient's commitment to their clubs, teams and community football that makes the game and improves the experience of playing football for the people around them.
“We thank them for their contribution and congratulate them on being named NNSWF Local Champion Awards winners for June. We wish them all the very best for the rest of the 2024 season.”
Monthly award winners are also nominated for the annual Local Champion Awards in October.
