Footy volunteers set for increased support

By Daniel Webb

Feb 28, 2022

Irreplaceable: Volunteers keep the wheels turning at football clubs across the region. Photo by Megan Fisher

Volunteers across all levels of football are set to receive increased support with volunteer support officers to be introduced by AFL Victoria.

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These officers are set to be employed right across the state, with a goal of supporting volunteers at all levels of the game.

Due to the size of the region, AFL Goulburn Murray is set to receive multiple officers, in a move that could transform volunteering for the better.

AFLGM commercial and operations manager Zara O’Keeffe said the officers would be a great additional resource to the community.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of community sport and they are integral to the week-to-week operations of our game,” O’Keeffe said.

“An extra set of hands to help will be appreciated and we hope that clubs embrace the opportunity to work with the VSOs.”

O’Keeffe said the officers would support volunteers to conduct key duties, provide guidance and training to upskill and assist with recruiting volunteers.

She said coming off the back of two interrupted years due to COVID-19, clubs needed volunteers and support more than ever before.

“Volunteer numbers have reduced as we see more people deciding that they have enjoyed having their weekends in winter free, however, we know that once we can get back up and running and hopefully see the removal of interruptions, that more and more return to our clubs,” she said.

“We can’t wait for the seasons to commence and we will keep supporting clubs to ensure that they can continue to successfully function and operate post COVID-19.”