As part of Female Football Week, we’re shining a light on the incredible women working behind the scenes in football across Macarthur. Today, we’re proud to feature Alison, long-time Club Secretary of Campbelltown Collegians FC.
Alison’s football journey began when her youngest son joined the club as an Under 6 player. Stepping up as a team manager, she quickly realised her organisational skills from her career as a personal assistant could be put to great use at the club.
“With my work life background being a personal assistant and organising a vast array of things for my company, I didn’t think running a club would be that different,” Alison explains.
“And doing something for the kids in the community is what I love about it the most.”
More than 15 years later, Alison is still giving her time, energy, and passion to the club season after season. What keeps her coming back?
“Seeing the kids outside enjoying playing soccer. Also the AA guys – they’re a great bunch of guys. Seeing everyone enjoying themselves is great.”
For Alison, the club is more than a football field – it’s a community.
“The sense of community spirit at our club is what I enjoy most. Myself and the committee have fostered that spirit over the last few years, and it gets noticed. Collies and visitors love coming to our club. For me, it really is an outlet from my work and home life. I love the social interaction with all the families at Collies.”
Alison’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Among her proudest moments are being nominated as Campbelltown’s Australian of the Year and as a Macarthur Football Association Volunteer of the Year Nominee – a testament to her leadership and heart.
Running a grassroots club in a low socio-economic area isn’t easy, but Alison and her committee are determined to make football accessible for everyone.
“We do our best at Collies to assist families so their kids can play. We don’t want any child to miss out.”
When asked what advice she’d give to other women thinking about volunteering or taking on leadership roles in local football, Alison’s message is simple and powerful:
“Do it! It truly is a rewarding experience. To do something for the benefit of others for nothing in return is a great feeling.”
Thank you, Alison, for your dedication, generosity, and the countless hours you’ve given to Collies and the Macarthur football community. You’re an inspiration to us all.
