VAFA Celebrates Unsung Heroes at the 2026 Awards Night

The Victorian Amateur Football Association (VAFA) has celebrated the outstanding contributions of five individuals whose leadership, dedication and commitment to community football have made a lasting impact within their respective clubs.

At the 2026 VAFA Awards Night, the Association recognised the coaches, volunteers, sports trainers and wellbeing leaders who play an integral role in creating thriving, inclusive and connected football clubs.

This year’s recipients exemplify the values of inclusion, respect, integrity and community, demonstrating the significant influence individuals can have on the people and clubs around them.

Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year – Women’s Teams

Harriet Cooper – Port Melbourne Chargers Women’s Football Club

In just their second season competing in the VAFA, Port Melbourne Chargers have made a remarkable impression on the competition, with senior coach Harriet Cooper playing a pivotal role in the club’s development and success.

Under Harriet’s leadership, the Chargers enjoyed an outstanding campaign, culminating in an appearance in the Premier B Grand Final. However, it is her impact beyond the scoreboard that has distinguished her contribution.

Harriet has established a coaching environment grounded in trust, connection and genuine care for her players. Her people-first approach encourages individuals to embrace their strengths, develop confidence and feel valued as members of the team.

Recognised for her empathy, approachability and ability to build meaningful relationships, Harriet has fostered a strong sense of belonging within the playing group.

Her achievements demonstrate that effective coaching extends beyond football knowledge and match-day performance. It is equally about developing people, strengthening relationships and creating an environment in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The VAFA congratulates Harriet Cooper on being named the 2026 Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year.

Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year – Men’s Teams

Adam Lagerewskij – Masala Dandenong Football Club

Adam Lagerewskij has been recognised for an exceptional season of leadership that helped deliver a historic achievement for Masala Dandenong Football Club.

Through his commitment to building a positive and accountable football environment, Adam has played a central role in strengthening the club’s on-field performance, collective belief and playing culture.

His coaching approach has emphasised clear expectations, shared responsibility and a strong sense of purpose, bringing players together and creating an environment in which individuals are encouraged to contribute, improve and take pride in representing their club.

The results were particularly significant in 2026, with Masala Dandenong securing its first senior premiership, a landmark achievement in the club’s history.

The VAFA congratulates Adam Lagerewskij on receiving the 2026 Carruthers Executive Community Coach of the Year.

The Pass Volunteer of the Year

Evan Lloyd – West Brunswick AFC

For more than two decades, Evan Lloyd has been an integral part of West Brunswick AFC, making an extraordinary contribution through his involvement as a player, committee member, President and Life Member.

Throughout his involvement, Evan has consistently demonstrated a willingness to identify challenges, support others and introduce practical initiatives that make participation in club life more accessible.

Among his most notable contributions has been helping establish an innovative babysitting program designed to reduce barriers for parents and caregivers wanting to remain involved in football.

Recognising that family and caring responsibilities can prevent people from participating, Evan helped develop a solution that has enabled more members of the West Brunswick community to maintain their connection with the club.

The initiative is a powerful example of how thoughtful, community-focused volunteering can create meaningful change. By responding to the needs of members, Evan has helped foster a more inclusive and welcoming club environment while demonstrating

that participation in community football should be accessible to people at different stages of life.

His contribution extends well beyond any single initiative. Through more than 20 years of service, Evan has exemplified the commitment, adaptability and community spirit that make volunteers such a valuable part of the VAFA.

The VAFA congratulates Evan Lloyd on being named the 2026 The Pass Volunteer of the Year, recognising his exceptional service and enduring contribution to West Brunswick AFC.

Victor Sports Trainer of the Year

Cassandra Lamers – Westbourne Grammarians Football Club

Behind every successful football program is a network of people committed to ensuring players can participate in a safe, supportive and well-managed environment.

At Westbourne Grammarians Football Club, Head Sports Trainer Cassandra ‘Cass’ Lamers has demonstrated outstanding leadership in strengthening the club’s approach to player health, safety and wellbeing.

Combining professional expertise with genuine care for those around her, Cass has played a key role in developing a more coordinated and sustainable sports training program.

Through her leadership and willingness to share knowledge, she has helped develop the capability and confidence of the club’s wider trainer network, strengthening its capacity to support players throughout the season.

Just as importantly, Cass has helped foster an environment in which player welfare is treated as a fundamental priority.

Her commitment to high standards, continuous improvement and the wellbeing of others exemplifies the vital contribution sports trainers make to community football.

The VAFA congratulates Cassandra Lamers on being named the 2026 Victor Sports Trainer of the Year.

Tackle Your Feelings Victoria State Champion

Amelia Desmond – Canterbury Football Club

Creating a strong football club involves more than developing players and achieving results. It also requires a culture in which people feel connected, supported and comfortable seeking help when they need it.

At Canterbury Football Club, Wellbeing Coordinator Amelia Desmond has been a driving force in advancing this commitment, demonstrating outstanding leadership in mental health awareness and community wellbeing.

Amelia has helped embed wellbeing considerations into the club’s everyday activities and broader culture, ensuring the welfare of players, volunteers and the wider Canterbury community remains a priority.

Her involvement in the Tackle Your Feelings program has been central to this work, helping create opportunities for greater awareness, education and meaningful conversations about mental health.

The VAFA congratulates Amelia Desmond on being recognised as the 2026 Tackle Your Feelings Victoria State Champion.

Recognising the People Who Make Community Football Possible

The achievements celebrated at the 2026 VAFA Awards Night serve as an important reminder that the success and sustainability of community football depend on much more than what happens on the field.

Every week, countless individuals contribute their time, knowledge and energy to coaching teams, supporting players, managing club operations, promoting wellbeing and creating welcoming environments for people to participate.

Their contributions are not always visible on match day, but their impact is felt throughout every club and across the wider VAFA community.

The VAFA extends its congratulations to all 2026 award recipients and nominees and sincerely thanks the thousands of coaches, volunteers, trainers and club leaders whose passion and commitment make football possible.