VAFA Celebrates 2025 Coaches, Volunteer, and Trainer of the Year at Awards Night

At the recent VAFA Awards Night, the community came together to celebrate the contributions of exceptional coaches and volunteers, presenting the Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year (Men’s and Women’s), The Pass Volunteer of the Year, and the Victor Sports Trainer of the Year awards.

The winners of the four awards on the night were:

• Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year Women’s teams – Samantha Greene (La Trobe University) 

• Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year Men’s teams – Brendan Dunne (Old Peninsula) 

• The PASS Volunteer of the Year – Paul Taylor (Prahran) 

• Victor Sports Trainer of the Year – Alexandra Mitris (Old Ivanhoe) 

Samantha, Brendan, Paul, and Alexandra each demonstrated outstanding dedication to their clubs and were truly deserving recipients. For more details on their achievements, please see their nominations submitted below. 

Samantha Greene (Division 2 Women’s – La Trobe University Amateur Football Club) was nominated Andrew Sutherland (Club President) 

Samantha Greene played her first game of football in LTUFC’s first official Women’s match in 2009. Throughout the years Sam also played an active role in the administration of the club, taking on almost every role on the committee, including that of Club President while still playing. In 2023, Sam returned to LTUFC to accept the role of Senior Women’s coach. She inherited a struggling team that had won just two games in each of the previous three seasons. Despite no prior coaching experience, Sam embraced the challenge of revitalizing a demoralised and frustrated group. 

Sam’s initial focus was on rebuilding trust and rapport. Her strong leadership yielded noticeable improvements both on and off the field, and although limited to only four wins in 2023 she had set the stage for future success. She faced multiple issues that she admitted were difficult, but she refused to ignore them and took on head on.  Old habits were removed and replaced with new positive training and playing behaviors. On field the playing group came to adhere to her game plan, and players began to believe in their abilities and that of the collective team. 

Sam has actively sought education and advice re her coaching role, both within and external to the club, especially in areas of the game such as midfield where she accepted that she had little experience herself. She embraced the technology of video feedback to the players individually and as a group, using it as an educational tool before and after training sessions and in her own always meticulous preparation. 

In 2024 Sam’s leadership and commitment showed tangible results with the team playing finals for the first time since 2018, ultimately reaching a Grand Final.  In 2025 she maintained the momentum and achieved Premiership success, the Women’s first since 2011 when she was a player. 

Brendan Dunne (Division 1 Men’s – Old Peninsula) was nominated by Alex Wood (Club President)

“Brendan has been instrumental in growing the Pirates community and shaping the experience of our players in 2025. His passion for Auskick has seen him actively engage with schools, attend coaching sessions, and even dress up as a Pirate to welcome the next generation of players for 2026. His strong connection with the school community, alongside his work with Nathan Jones, has positioned Old Peninsula as a genuine pathway for students to continue their football journey after graduation. Brendan’s reputation has extended beyond our club, attracting players from neighbouring leagues who trust his knowledge, experience, and belief in building something special at the Pirates. Among his many initiatives, he introduced the “Hero, Hardship, Highlight” night a space for players and officials to share openly, building trust and strengthening our bond at a crucial point in the season. 

With so many new faces this year, Brendan’s calm, direct, and honest style created an environment where players always knew where they stood. Built on love for the game and love for one another, his leadership helped bring out the best in our group. 

Above all, Brendan makes people feel safe and valued. Nothing is ever off-limits a quality that sets him apart and makes his impact on our club so significant.” 

Paul Taylor (Prahran FC) was nominated by Fabio Maya (Club President)

“Paul serves as Vice President and sits on the Toorak Park Users Group committee, where he played a key role in developing the new clubrooms. He is also a member of the Prahran Board, driving the growth of women’s football and leading efforts to establish an Under 19s team in 2026. Paul has been involved in the club for over 50 years and has been volunteering for over 30 years for the betterment of the club. 

Since retiring, Paul is often the first to arrive and dedicates hours each day to tackling football matters for the club. A former player from the club’s VFA days, he now spearheads Past Players functions, ensuring our history remains strong. His leadership was also instrumental in the late 1990s merger of Prahran and Southbank, which ultimately secured Prahran’s return to Toorak Park.  

Passionate, tireless, and truly devoted, Paul bleeds two blues. The club would be lost without him a genuine legend of our footy club.” 

Alexandra Mitris was nominated by Chris Branigan (Club President)

“We are proud to nominate Lexi Mitris for the VAFA Sports Trainer of the Year. Lexi has been part of the club for 13 years as a dedicated volunteer, including over 8 years as a trainer. Lexi has been a cornerstone of the Old Ivanhoe medical team for over a decade, and has served as our team leader for more than five years. Lexi’s leadership is defined by her efficiency, knowledge, and compassion. She has built a medical team that operates so seamlessly that, for the general committee, it’s a case of “set and forget.” Her ability to anticipate needs, respond to requests, and manage logistics is second to none. Her deep connection to the club is also personal, her brother, Michael Mitris, is a former captain and life member. Lexi’s commitment is not just professional; it’s familial and heartfelt. There is no request too small or too complex that Lexi won’t chase down and resolve. Lexi is kind, friendly, and deeply respected by players, staff, and volunteers. Her presence elevates the culture of care and professionalism within our club, and we believe she is a truly deserving candidate for this recognition.” 

As the 2025 season comes to a close, the VAFA extends its congratulations to all community award winners and sincere thanks to the volunteers, coaches, and club members for their outstanding contributions throughout the year. Wishing everyone an enjoyable and well-deserved break!