Melissa has been involved in the ACT Women’s Football League (ACTWAFL), now known as the AFL Canberra Women’s League,’ for eleven years and counting. She began playing for the Eastlake Football Club (EFC) in 2000 and has enjoyed a distinguished and successful career including 180+ ACTWAFL games, ACT Representation, All Australian selection, club Best & Fairest and Players Player awards and was also one of the first women to play 100 games for EFC.
In 2004 Melissa began giving back to the ACTWAFL, volunteering her time to become an Executive member of the ACTWAFL as the Competition Co-ordinator and then Treasurer in 2005.
One of Melissa’s most successful endeavors was the organisation of the 2007 AFL Women’s National Championships hosted by the ACTWAFL in Canberra. Her professional and efficient co-ordination of such an event has seen her gain great respect and admiration from both the local and national football community. Hosting eight teams from around Australia over a week of footy whilst competing herself was remarkable. During this year’s Championships she will be playing her 50th game for the ACT.
Other examples of her commitment to football are seen through her performing the role of co-chair AFL Canberra Female Football Advisory Committee and previously being involved in AFL National Female Football Advisory Committee. These Committees have been aimed at increasing participation levels of female footballers and significantly improving the professionalism and development of the Youth Girls and Women’s Competitions.
Being the humble person she is Mel did not make a fuss about her 50 games so it passed without fanfare. Hats off to an outstanding contributor to the female game. Congratulations Mel!
In summary, Melissa’s ability to achieve so much success on and off the football field, whilst balancing her other personal commitments is a huge credit to her. Her vision and enthusiasm for creating a solid future for women’s football in Canberra were formally recognised when she was awarded Life Membership of the ACTWAFL at the end of 2008.
Last Modified on 16/06/2011 17:10