VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month – July

The VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month award recognises a VAFA club who through its actions both on and off the field, best exhibits the values of the VAFA, namely Respect, Inclusive, Integrity and Community.  

Ormond AFC has been named the VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month for July in recognition of their strong display of the VAFA’s core value of Respect & Community.  

Ormond Amateur Football Club 
Ormond AFC has showcased impressive leadership and initiative across all areas of club development in 2025. Their work with the VAFA has included a strong focus on player wellbeing, governance reform, and facility upgrades, while also proactively planning for financial sustainability through the off-season. Their strategic approach to boosting revenue, applying for community grants, and maximising programs like TFCG, TGFFR, and TAC has set them apart. The club’s collaboration with multiple VAFA departments was widely acknowledged, contributing to their success in July. Their commitment to growing the women’s program and fostering an inclusive, community-first culture continues to reinforce their reputation as a key club in the competition. 

As recognition of their award, the Ormond AFC receive a $150 credit courtesy of Club Connect to restock their canteen/drinks fridge. When told about the award, club President Jason Burt mentioned that  

“It is fantastic to be acknowledged as the VAFA’s Club Connect Club of the Month, thank you.  We are building something special at Ormond, including our commitment to a sustainable pathway for Ormond Junior Girls to Ormond Senior Women and further strengthening our connection to the local community.  Bring on finals footy!”   

The other two clubs nominated by VAFA Management in July were: 

St Mary’s Salesian Football Club 
St Mary’s Salesian has continued to set the standard in 2025 for strong club culture, leadership, and proactive collaboration with the VAFA. Their consistent efforts in areas such as volunteer engagement, mental health education through the Tackle Your Feelings program, and enhancing the match-day experience have significantly boosted community connection and morale. This year, the club also prioritised coach development by collaborating with the VAFA’s C&CS department to coordinate tailored coaching sessions for its coaches. The club has also been commended by VAFA staff for its cooperative nature and forward-thinking approach, particularly in operations, ground management, and fixturing, making them a pleasure to work with. Their alignment with the league’s values and strategic vision positions them as one of the most respected and admired clubs in the VAFA. 

South Melbourne Districts Football Club 
South Melbourne Districts has stood out in 2025 as a forward-thinking and deeply engaged club, forging strong connections with VAFA management. The club’s long-term vision includes building robust pathways for junior women and girls in the community, with steps already underway. South Melbourne Districts also demonstrated leadership by hosting and promoting the VAFA’s W&G Charter Support Workshop, reflecting their inclusive values. Their readiness to contribute, collaborate, and plan has made them a vital part of the VAFA’s growth and direction heading into 2026.  

If you believe your club demonstrates the values of the VAFA and would like to share the great work happening at your club, please email VAFA Club Support Manager, Pranav Menon ([email protected])