Do you know a sport volunteer who has made an exceptional impact over the past 12 months?
The Australian Sports Commission (ASC) is on the lookout for the 2025 Sport Volunteer of the Year. You can nominate a local legend who goes above and beyond for their club or team right here.
The winner of this annual award will receive national recognition and a special presentation at their home club this December.
While many volunteers prefer to stay out of the spotlight, recognition matters.
“The majority of us will say that we don't need it, we don't like it, and we prefer to stay away from the camera,” Karratha Basketball Association volunteer Nathaniel Ket said.
“But at the end of the day, it is validation that the time and effort you're putting in is for good reason and it's fantastic to have that recognised.
“It’s a chance to give back to those who keep grassroots sport alive,” Ket said.
“Just knowing that it's making a difference and hearing the recognition, the thanks, the gratefulness from people, how appreciative they are- it really helps you to keep going,” Sturt Badminton Club volunteer Andy Nguyen said.
Superstar Jess Fox honoured Julie Keillor with the 2024 Sport Volunteer of the Year Award, celebrating her incredible work at Shepparton Canoe Club.
Keillor embodied the spirit of volunteerism and helped cultivate a culture of inclusivity within the paddling community.
“While I’m deeply honoured by this recognition, the real success is watching our all-abilities paddling community grow,” Keillor said.
“Every new participant is a barrier broken, a life changed, and a testament to the power of inclusive sport.”
Keillor was among a record 130 volunteers from 47 sports nominated in 2024.
Volunteering is a cornerstone of Australia’s first Participation Strategy, Play Well, which ensures everyone – including volunteers – has a place in sport.
Nominations close Sunday 26 October 2025. Nominate here.
