By Larissa Mouttou
The strength of our game is built upon the dedication and support of thousands of passionate volunteers. Club volunteers, parents, and many others who give up their time to ensure our game continues to grow.
On Saturday we recognised one particular group who are vital to progressing Australian Rules in Queensland schools, our AFL Queensland School Ambassador’s.
Primary and secondary school teachers from all over the state were invited to our annual School Ambassador of the Year Awards Function at the Pineapple Hotel last Saturday. Hosted by Brisbane Lions AFLW Head Coach Craig Starcevich, the event is aimed at recognising all those teachers who help us deliver our AFL programs in schools throughout the state.
State Development Manager, Mark Ensor, praised the efforts of our School Ambassadors, saying “the fantastic growth we have seen in AFL in Queensland would not have been possible without support on the ground in our schools.”
“We thank each and every one of our School Ambassadors for assisting us in delivering our programs.”
The achievements of AFL Queensland award winning Year 4 Curriculum Program, Everyone Matters, were also acknowledged at the event. Gina Lyons of Mother Teresa Catholic Primary School Ormeau received recognition for her role as Lead Writer of the program, which educates students on the importance of a diverse outlook through the lens of Australian Rules football.
The highest honours of Primary AFL School Ambassador of the Year and Secondary AFL School Ambassador of the Year, Stephen Boundy of Toowoomba East State School and Jasmin Pace of Mercy College, each received flights and accommodation for two people to attend a first week AFL Premiership Finals match in Melbourne.
AFL Queensland School Ambassador of the Year Awards Winners
Service to Football Award
Kristen Knight of Freshwater State School
Contribution to Female Participation Award
Liza Callaghan of Assisi Catholic College
Students Choice AFL Teacher the Year Award, Brisbane Lions Zone
Scott Gregory of Narangba Valley State High School
Students Choice AFL Teacher the Year Award, Gold Coast Suns Zone
Jarrod Wells of Palm Beach Currumbin State High School
Primary AFL School Ambassador of the Year Award
Stephen Boundy of Toowoomba East State School
Secondary AFL School Ambassador of the Year Award
Jasmin Pace of Mercy College
