VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month – August

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.  

Wattle Park AFC has been named the VAFA Club Connect Club of the Month for August in recognition of their strong display of the VAFA’s core value of Inclusive & Community.  

The clubs nominated by VAFA Management in August were:  

Wattle Park 

Wattle Park has been proudly nominated by the VAFA management in recognition of the club’s outstanding commitment both on and off the field throughout 2025. The club has worked closely with the VAFA across a wide range of initiatives, with a strong focus on player wellbeing and long-term growth. This year, Wattle Park placed a spotlight on mental health, actively engaging with the Tackle Your Feelings program. The initiative was embraced by players, coaches, and volunteers, reinforcing the club’s commitment to creating a supportive environment. 

Following the 2024 season, the club immediately embarked on strategic planning in partnership with the VAFA, identifying priorities around inclusivity and the growth of women’s football. Their efforts were recognised with AFL’s W&G Charter accreditation, a significant milestone for the club. In addition, Wattle Park collaborated on a facility audit to support future upgrades and has been consistently cooperative with VAFA’s football operations and scheduling needs. 

Old Haileybury 

Old Haileybury has been proudly nominated by the VAFA management in recognition of their outstanding commitment both on and off the field throughout 2025. The club has been a pioneer in advancing women’s football, being one of the first in the VAFA to develop a comprehensive action plan through the AFL W&G Charter to grow their women’s program. Not only were they the first club to achieve chartered status, but they have also taken the next step by completing the AFL Gender Equity Education Program, demonstrating a strong commitment to meaningful action. Throughout the season, Old Haileybury has collaborated closely with the VAFA, supporting off-field initiatives and cooperating with the football department with schedules, rules, operations etc. The club has also shown professionalism and leadership in managing spectator issues and supporting fellow VAFA clubs in addressing off-field supporter behaviour. Their dedication highlights the club’s values, impact, and positive influence across the VAFA community. 

Parkdale Vultures 

Parkdale Vultures was nominated by the VAFA staff for their outstanding engagement with the VAFA, particularly through their efforts in coordinating Friday night games, which have become a real highlight. Their strong and consistent communication with both the VAFA and the wider community has helped attract and retain an impressive group of volunteers who continue to step up on game days. The club has built a thriving football program across both men’s and women’s teams, with strong community connections supporting their success in player recruitment and retention. Equally important has been the Vultures’ commitment to their junior pathway and four Master’s team that compete in AFL Master’s competition, which has not only stabilised but also grown, resulting in increasing participation across all levels. Through their collaboration with the VAFA and dedication to community, Parkdale Vultures are setting themselves up for a strong and sustainable future. 

As recognition of their award, the Wattle Park AFC receive a $150 credit courtesy of Club Connect to restock their canteen/drinks fridge. When told about the award, club President Cam Gardener mentioned that “whilst on-field, our seasons didn’t end the way we had hoped, it’s really positive to see the hard work and commitment everyone at club, not just Coaches and Committee, has been recognised by the VAFA. We’re proud of the off-field initiatives we drive, to support the on-field endeavours, such as our Annual Mother’s Day Luncheon (over $150,000 raised in total), our Mental Health Process and Fund, and our recent Women’s Football Charter involvement. Thanks to the VAFA for their support!” 

As we close out the 2025 season, we thank all our clubs for their ongoing commitment to their communities, volunteers, and players. The Club Connect Club of the Month recognition has highlighted the outstanding work being done across the VAFA, and we look forward to celebrating even more success stories in 2026.