Three new VAFA Life Members anointed

The VAFA congratulates Ian Cordner, Davina Connors-Calhaem, and Michael Sholly who were approved as Life Members at the 2025 VAFA Annual General Meeting last week.

The nominations were introduced by VAFA Vice President Ivan Delac, who chairs the Life Member sub-committee, with members Matt Scholten (VAFA Director) and Nick Bourke (President, Life Members Association).

Ian Cordner has been volunteer Chairman of the Big V Club since 2015, highlighted by his efforts in helping to deliver the 100 year Big V Gala where he gave the final celebratory toast.

Ian had an illustrious playing career with both Old Melburnians and University Blacks football clubs, and enjoyed a stellar Big V career in a golden era of Big V football, inclusive of major victories over the VFA & VCFL.

Davina Connors-Calhaem made history in 2004 when she was the first ever female to be appointed to the VAFA Board. Davina was a Director for 10 years, serving on the marketing and commercial sub-committees and was instrumental in developing the origins of the VAFA women’s competition.

Michael Sholly served as VAFA Chief Executive Officer from 2004 to 2017, including the role of Director from 2005 to 2017. He led the VAFA through a period of significant growth, including the implementation of the Women’s competition, the Men’s Thirds competition, Big V Representative team tours to Ireland and South Africa, and the establishment of the annual Big V Club function.

All three Life Members are clearly very worthy of having the highest honour in the VAFA bestowed upon them. 

The presentation of their life membership will be held at VAFA events during the 2026 season.