2025 SANFL Volunteer of the Year Finalist – Adam Salmon

8 October 2025

By ALEXANDRA BULL

When you think of South Gambier Football Club, you think of Adam Salmon.

Adam first became involved with South Gambier in 1993, at just 19 years of age when he followed a couple of mates who were making the move from Glencoe Football Club in the Mid-South Eastern Football League.

Adam went on to play more than 350 games, achieving the ultimate glory with 10 premierships across both Glencoe and South Gambier. He captained South Gambier, along with captaining the Limestone Coast Football League Interleague team in the early 2000s.

31 years later, he is now South Gambier Football Club Junior President and Auskick Coordinator, and Limestone Coast Football League Junior President.

In these roles, Adam has been the driving force behind countless initiatives, all whilst supporting his three children in their own football journeys.

Adam has not only given his time as a junior coach, but he’s also led and organised numerous club fundraisers and provided life-changing experiences for local juniors, including trips to the MCG.

“At the time, South Gambier was part of the Western Border Football League, which had 11 teams – five from Victoria and six from South Australia,” Adam said.

“I saw it is a step-up in standard and was looking to play at the highest level possible.”

In 2024, the Western Border Football League joined the new Limestone Coast Football Netball League, which saw Adam appointed as the inaugural junior football director.

“I saw this as a great opportunity to help set up the new league for success, with the junior structure key to attracting new clubs to the league,” he said.

Adam’s role as a key figure in restructuring and facilitating the transition of juniors from Western Border to the Limestone Coast FNFL speaks volumes about his dedication and commitment.

In every role he takes on, Adam’s selflessness and determination have made a lasting impact on football in the region. His work continues to strengthen his local football community and embodies what it means to give back to footy in a voluntary role.

“I can assure you that South Gambier has given me more than I have given in return,” Adam said.

“Being involved in junior football and seeing the positive impact that I can have on a young person’s life is a real highlight.”

Adam is one of eight finalists for the 2025 SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award, with the winner to be announced at the annual SANFL Community Volunteers Awards Night at Adelaide Oval on Friday, 31 October.