Quinns’ Districts Junior Football Club stalwart Mark Clayton has been nominated for WA Football Volunteer of the Year Award.Thursday, July 28, 2022 - 9:22 AM

Clayton is a Year 9 coach and a past committee member of the club.

He is also coach of the club’s Starkick, all-abilities team.

“Mark is one amazing person. Not having any kids of his own with a disability he saw a story on the Starkick program and decided he would be the one at Quinns to ensure that all kids would be able to play football,” his nomination states.

“So four years ago he asked our club committee if he could begin this new program called Starkick. He was given the go ahead and became our club Starkick Coordinator.

“Setting out Mark had fourkids sign up, but he wanted more. Through his energy and enthusiasm this year we are heading towards having 30 Starkick players registered at Quinns.

“Mark’s commitment, enthusiasm and passion ensures the program is a huge success for our club. The smiles on the children and parents faces are proof of how successful Starkick is. 

“Mark likes to make sure every child is given a fair go and having fun. Even if a child was feeling down he would pick them up with a smile and a laugh and sometimes a piggy back.

“His passion to have every Starkicker feel included in every aspect of football sees him continue this role year after year.”

The WA Football Commission award has its origins in Western Australia and has now been adopted nationally with nearly 1350 nominations State-wide last year. 

The Rio Tinto WA Football Volunteer of the Year Award, supported by The Sunday Times, covers community football, disability inclusion, diversity ambassador, junior and senior coach, Auskick, school ambassador (primary and secondary awards and umpiring service.

Troy Kirkham, the WAFC’s executive manager junior, youth and community football, said he was in awe of volunteers.

“There are over 45,000 volunteers that support community football clubs right across WA week in and week out,” he said. 
There will be one finalist per category from each District and Region, with one nomination from each District and Region recognised at the Sandover Medal. 

The Volunteer of the Year will receive $5000. 

A WA winner from each category will also be submitted to the AFL National Volunteer Awards to become eligible for the overall National awards hosted by the AFL. 

They will also receive a 12-month subscription to The Sunday Times and WAN digital access, along with a $500 gift card or prize to the same value.

WA Volunteers can be nominated via thankavolunteer.com.au