FFA looking for grassroots football’s “stars”

There are football “stars” in every suburb and town across Australia. They are the volunteers who run the clubs, the coaches who run the teams and the helpers who run everywhere in between.
There are also “star” teams, who make their mark with outstanding sporting and community spirit or generous charity efforts.
The Australian Football Awards (AFA) are now open for nominations of football’s “stars” of the grassroots game.
The annual awards are held by Football Federation Australia (FFA) to recognise the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals, groups and teams in the football family.
The unique format of the AFAs sees these grassroots stars acknowledged on the same night as players representing Australia at the highest international level.
There are three main categories in the AFA Awards:
 

1. Meritorious Service: The FFA Medal is the most prestigious award available while the Community Service Award is an award for a member of the Australian football community who has made an outstanding contribution to the Australian community outside football

2. Professional: The FFA Footballer of the Year and FFA U20 Footballer of the Year awards for both male and female players who have demonstrated excellence on the field as well as outstanding contribution and professionalism off the field

3. Community: This category includes a volunteer, coach, referee and team award. The Team of the Year Award is open to any team which is part of a club registered with FFA, across all age groups.
 
The football family may nominate online by visiting www.footballaustralia.com.au/footballawards until 5.00pm AEST on Friday 20 September.
“The true strength of our sport is dependent on the hundreds of thousands of players, match officials, coaches and volunteers within our grassroots ranks,” said FFA CEO David Gallop.
“The Australian Football Awards will recognise the efforts of those at the grassroots who have made an extraordinary contribution to our game and those who have excelled at the highest levels.
“If you know of any unsung heroes at your local football club, I urge you to nominate them to be recognised for their endeavours.
“These awards celebrate the whole range of achievements from the amateur to the professional ranks uniting the Australian football community,” concluded Gallop.
The winners of the 2013 Australian Football Awards will be announced at a special gala event in November. This is the 5th edition of the Australian Football Awards.

Note: The AFA professional awards are determined by an expert judging panel. Votes are received from National team, Hyundai A-League and Westfield W-League coaching staff members. National Youth League coaches will also be involved in preparing the U20 Footballer of the Year shortlist.