Thu, 31/01/2008

Like many who become volunteers for our junior sports teams, Stathe Georgiou began volunteering with the Belnorth Football Club when one of his sons began playing in 1997.

Stathe says that one of the great benefits he has gained from his volunteer work has been his bonding with his two sons in a way that would not have been possible had he not been involved with his boys through his work with Belnorth.

Over the years of his involvement, Stathe's roles have been many and varied and have included coaching, team management and preparing grounds on game day.

As well as working as a volunteer with junior teams, Stathe has also managed and coordinated Belnorth's Masters team while also being the club's delegate to the local football association. In addition, Stathe has coordinated Belnorth's Masters participation in the Vet's Shield, an end of season ACT tournament.

Stathe has also used the opportunity to develop his own fitness level and well-being by playing in the Masters competition culminating in his membership of the gold medal winning team in the 2006 Masters Pan Pacific Games and a bronze in the Australasian Masters in 2007.

The ongoing support of his family is vital , says Stathe , and he would not have been able to devote the time he has were it not for their understanding.

Stathe believes that he, like many of his fellow volunteers, benefits greatly in many ways by their involvement, not the least of which is their building of community spirit.

In recognition of his decade of work, Stathe was awarded the Belnorth 'Club Person of the Year' for 2007 and has also received 'Life Membership' as well as the 'President Award' in 2005.