Sometimes, it is the goals kicked off the field that define the success of a local sports club.
Volunteers like Kellee Frazer, from Gordon Football Netball Club, work tirelessly to keep their beloved teams afloat, giving up their time and energy to make sure others can succeed without acknowledgement.
Now, Ms Frazer has received national recognition by being awarded 2024 Volunteer of the Year by the AFL – something she did not anticipate.
“I was very overwhelmed, surprised, and honoured to accept an award like this,” said Ms Frazer.
After joining when she was 18, Ms Frazer has had an extensive involvement with the club for over three decades.
She was granted a life membership in 2022 for a range of different roles, from junior netball coach and umpire delegate to an 11 year stint as secretary and ultimately president in 2024.
However, it hasn’t always been easy going – in 2010, the club came close to collapsing but held on thanks to the persistence of locals like Ms Frazer.
“We worked hard to… develop how to move forward and hit goals to become a successful club,” said Ms Frazer.
“We’ve done everything… to improve and become a place that people want to come to.”
Ms Frazer said sport in regional communities like Gordon was more than just a game.
“You get kids that develop friendships through team sports with kids from other schools and that’s great for the town.
“It’s great for people to come together and catch up and it is really important for the development of kids and teens.”
The close bond forged with others is one of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering, said Ms Frazer.
“You make lots of friends at lots of other clubs and you know how hard others work to pull it together every week for the community,” she said.
It is seeing the dedication of others that makes winning Volunteer of the Year particularly meaningful.
“Knowing that makes it special that they picked me,” said Ms Frazer.
On Thursday September 5, former AFL superstar Jobe Watson made the announcement in front of a gathering of Ms Frazer’s family, friends, and club members.
