Greg O’Rourke Awarded Prestigious Charles Valentine Medal
Greg O’Rourke has been named the recipient of the 2025 Charles Valentine Medal, one of the highest honours in New South Wales football, awarded to individuals who have made an extraordinary and lasting contribution to the game.
O’Rourke’s influence has been instrumental in shaping the sport’s trajectory—from grassroots to the elite level. His leadership has not only transformed local and national competitions but has also elevated standards in infrastructure, governance, and community inclusion.
From his early days as a player and coach at Heathcote and St John Bosco, to leading the Barden Ridgebacks Football Club as President, Greg’s deep and personal connection to the game has always guided his path. His journey through football administration reflects a lifelong commitment to the betterment of the sport.
Over the past two decades, Greg has held several high-impact roles, including:
- President of the Sutherland Shire Football Association (2008–2011)
- Chair of Football NSW (2011–2016)
- Commissioner of the A-League (2016–2023)
- President of Sutherland Sharks (2025–present)
Throughout these roles, O’Rourke has driven reforms that have enhanced the profile, sustainability, and accessibility of football across NSW and Australia.
Among his most significant contributions was his tenure as A-League Commissioner, where he championed the growth of women’s football well before its mainstream rise. Under his leadership, the W-League expanded in line with international standards, with improvements to team numbers, match frequency, player conditions, and pay. His work in securing a groundbreaking five-year Collective Bargaining Agreement with the PFA, ahead of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, helped lay the foundation for a more equitable and professional women’s game.
O’Rourke was also central to strategic infrastructure projects, most notably the redevelopment of Football NSW’s Valentine Sports Park between 2013 and 2015. His advocacy and planning ensured greater access to quality facilities for communities across NSW.
During his time as Chair of Football NSW, he led key structural reforms, including the integration of A-League academies into the Football NSW State League competitions, a move that strengthened the player development pipeline.
The Charles Valentine Medal honours those whose service has left an indelible mark on the game in New South Wales with O’Rourke honoured at the 2025 Annual Gala Awards.
Football NSW congratulates Greg O’Rourke on receiving the 2025 Charles Valentine Medal and thanks him for his extraordinary service to the game.
