July Volunteer of the Month Award

The VAFA is proud to celebrate the outstanding contributions of volunteers who go above and beyond to support their clubs and embody the values of our community. Each month, we receive nominations that highlight inspiring stories of dedication, leadership, and impact and July was no exception.   

Congratulations to Kate Bond from La Trobe University Football Club, who has been named The Pass Volunteer of the Month for July!  

Kate was nominated by Club Coach Samantha Greene in recognition of their incredible contribution to the club that aligns with VAFA’s value of Community.  

“Kate Bond — has been an integral part of the La Trobe University Football Club for over a decade, and quite simply, the club wouldn’t function without her. As our Women’s Football Operations Manager, Bondy is the first one at training turning on the lights, and the last to leave — often the quiet engine room behind the scenes, making sure things run smoothly for everyone else. 

In the past few years, our women’s program has transformed from a struggling side to a competitive, finals-bound team. That kind of turnaround doesn’t happen without people like Bondy. While others see the game-day result, she’s the one making sure the details are sorted — uniforms packed, players registered, umpires confirmed, physios coordinated, and a positive experience created for every player involved. She’s a consistent, calm, and reliable presence that gives players and coaches the space to perform. 

Bondy also works tirelessly across the broader club, actively supporting our men’s teams and creating meaningful connection across the programs. At a uni-based club like LTUFC — where members are young, transient, and often balancing study and work — we rely heavily on a small group of volunteers to keep things running. Bondy is the heart of that. Her commitment goes far beyond a title: she leads by example, lifts those around her, and is one of the few people who truly makes the whole place better just by being there. 

The LTUFC community is stronger, more united, and more sustainable because of her contribution. She’s a quiet hero of grassroots footy — and we couldn’t think of a more deserving Volunteer of the Month.” 

We commend Kate for their continued contribution to the club and the wider VAFA community.   

Nominations for August are now open! Submit your nominations for The Pass Volunteer of the Month, now recognising contributions aligned with any of the VAFA values.