Nominate a Volunteer todayFriday, June 16, 2023 - 11:17 AM

There is still plenty of time to get your nominations in for the 2023 Rio Tinto Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Anyone can nominate a volunteer who has provided outstanding service and support to a local club, whether that be coaches, club presidents, coordinators or parents who help with game day activities – every little bit helps.

This is why Kylie Stone has been nominated for the Disability and Inclusion Ambassador category. She is the Team Manager for the Integrated team at Swan Districts (Perth Football League) and is responsible for leading the team in the WA All Abilities Football Association (WAAAFA). 

Kylie has been part of Swan Districts for two years and is responsible for recruiting new players and coordinating game days within the WAAAFA. 

Kylie has been recognised for encouraging and supporting the team to promote inclusion despite everyone’s different capabilities.

“To see the development of the players’ skills from the first time they join and putting all the training they’ve learned into game day makes me extremely proud,” Kylie said.

“It’s an overwhelming honour that I have been nominated, I’m shocked.

“I love being alongside the team and helping them with whatever is needed. I do what I do with the ultimate goal of helping each individual be the best they can be both on and off the field.”

Kylie first became involved with the Integrated competition through her son.

“My son first played in a mainstream team growing up and often spent more time on the bench than playing which made it not enjoyable for my son and myself,” she said. 

“In 2014 he joined an integrated team where I became Team Manager the following year.

“All players regardless of their ability need a place to feel safe, supported, and respected. 

“They all want to play a sport that they love in a safe and inclusive environment, and if I can help them to do this, even in the tiniest bit, then I know I’ve helped them to feel included and achieve their dream. 

“I’ve seen my son go from not wanting to play footy and spend all of his time in his room, to getting back out there and having a crack at a sport that he loves.”  

Troy Kirkham, Executive Manager Game Development and Community Football at the West Australian Football Commission, encouraged the football community to nominate a deserving recipient.

“You don’t have to be part of a football club to nominate, you may know of a family member or friend who has spent their time volunteering at a football club,” Kirkham said.

“It’s a great opportunity to recognise and acknowledge the efforts of our volunteers, who without them, clubs would struggle to field games each week.”

Nominations for the 2023 Rio Tinto Volunteer of the Year are open until Monday 10 July.
Nominate a volunteer today.