Australians are being called upon to nominate local dads making a difference in grassroots sport for the annual Community Sports Dad of the Year, thanks to Philips Water – a national initiative now in its twelfth year, celebrating the unsung heroes who go above and beyond to support their local sporting teams.

The annual Community Sports Dad of the Year is designed to reward the contributions and positive impact that Australian dads make to their families and community, both on and off the sporting field.

With nominations now open until August 27 via www.sportsdads.com.au/community, the prestigious award shines a spotlight on the dads doing it all – from coaching and refereeing to fundraising, carpooling, and cheering from the sidelines.

It’s a chance to honour their dedication in time for Father’s Day on Sunday, 7 September 2025

The winner will receive a Philips Reverse Osmosis purification water station valued at $1,299 RRP, along with a $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to purchase new clothing or sporting equipment for their chosen community sports club. And in recognition of their efforts to nominate a local legend, the person who submits the winning entry will also receive a Philips Multigroom 7000 grooming kit, valued at $229.00 RRP.

Paul Masluk, founder of the Community Sports Dad of the Year Award, said the initiative was created to recognise the everyday dads who keep grassroots sport alive.

“Every year we’re blown away by the stories of dads who give so much of their time and energy to their local clubs. These are the people who quietly keep grassroots sport running – not for recognition, but because they care. This award is about shining a light on those efforts and saying thank you in a meaningful way.” said Masluk.

Chosen from thousands of nominations, Nathan Butler – President of Blue Lake Soccer Club – was named the 2024 Community Sports Dad of the Year, becoming the first South Australian dad to receive the honour. Recognised for his tireless commitment to coaching, refereeing, and keeping the club running, Butler used the $5,000 Rebel Sports voucher to purchase 100 new training balls, junior goals, goalkeeper gloves, ball pumps, and updated gear for teams ranging from under-6s to seniors.

“It’s been another busy year,” said Butler. “I’m still coaching two teams, refereeing, and doing everything else that needs to be done. I love being involved and seeing the kids learn the game. I encourage everyone to get involved in their children’s sports – clubs can’t run without volunteers, and sport is so important for kids’ development and friendships.”

Since winning the award, Butler has coached his under-12 development team into the grand final after finishing fourth on the ladder – a proud achievement despite narrowly missing out on the premiership. Blue Lake Soccer Club also capped off the year by being named Limestone Coast Football Association’s Club of the Year.

All of this has been made possible thanks to the proud support of Philips Water and Peter Bosscher, CEO of Bosscher Commercial Management and exclusive agent for Phillips Water, who helped launch the original Sports Dad award back in 2009.

“We’re thrilled to support the Community Sports Dad of the Year award, which continues to shine a light on the incredible contributions sporting dads make both on and off the field. There’s nothing quite like this program in Australia, and we’re proud to celebrate deserving dads nationwide, many of whom don’t even realise the impact their selfless efforts have on their communities.”

Whether it’s a dad who’s always first to arrive at training or quietly keeps the club running behind the scenes, now’s the time to say thank you. Nominations are open now at www.sportsdads.com.au/community.

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