2026 Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award nominations open

22 May 2026

By ALEXANDRA BULL 

Nominations are open for the 2026 Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award, which shines a light on the remarkable contribution of volunteers who go above and beyond for their local football club or league.

Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, nominations are open for the SANFL Volunteer of the Year Awards and the AFL National Volunteer Awards, and close Monday, July 6, with awards to be presented at the SANFL Community Volunteers Awards Dinner at Adelaide Oval later this year.

Award categories include Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award (SANFL), NAB AFL Auskick Volunteer of the Year (AFL), The Hospital Research Foundation Young Community Leader of the Year (SANFL), NAB AFL Superkick Volunteer of the Year (AFL), and Community Club Coach Coordinator of the Year (SANFL).

South Australia has over 5,000 volunteers registered, filling roles at clubs such as team managers and medical officers.

SANFL Executive General Manager – Football Matt Duldig said the thousands of volunteers across local football in South Australia are the heartbeat of leagues and clubs.

“The Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award recognises the unsung heroes of our game and celebrates those who go above and beyond, who play such an important role in making community football thrive,” Duldig said.

“From administrators, umpires, coaches, and trainers to Auskick coordinators, canteen volunteers and timekeepers, every club relies on passionate people who generously give their time week in, week out.

“Volunteers are the foundation of our game, and we must continue to inspire the next generation to get involved, with volunteering offering a strong sense of purpose, connection and valuable life skills both on and off the field.”

A shortlist of up to eight finalists will be selected from across South Australia and will receive the following:

• Framed recognition certificate of their nomination presented at the 2026 SANFL Community Volunteers Awards Dinner
• Invitation for themselves and a guest to the 2026 SANFL Community Volunteers Awards Dinner

In addition to being awarded the David Shipway AM Medal and a perpetual trophy, the Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year award winner will receive the following prizes:

• One night of accommodation for two people at the Serafino Winery McLaren Vale, including a three-course dinner and breakfast. During the stay, guests will be provided with the use of a brand-new luxury Kia vehicle to explore the famous wine region in style
• Two Ultimate Football Memberships, including reserved seats to AFL Home games (excluding finals) in season 2027 at Adelaide Oval
• A $200 e-gift voucher (prepaid Mastercard), courtesy of the AFL

The 2026 Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year Award winner will also be nominated as the SA entry for the national AFL Volunteer of the Year Award. The national overall winner will be awarded a Toyota vehicle and three-day AFL Grand Final experience.

For more details and to nominate a volunteer from a SANFL Club, community club or local league for both the Bendigo Bank SANFL Volunteer of the Year and other award categories, visit https://sanfl.com.au/volunteer/