Congratulations Zana Cohen!
NSW Touch Football are proud to award Wallsend Touch Association’s very own, Zana Cohen, as Volunteer of the Month for May 2026.
To share some of Zana’s story, we asked her:
1. What motivated you to start volunteering with your local Touch Association, and how long have you been involved?
I started volunteering at my local affiliate Wallsend Touch Association after playing in their social mixed competition with friends and family. My eldest son was playing in a representative team and so my first actual role with the club, other than playing in their Friday night mixed social competition, was to be a team manager for one of the representative teams. That was way back in 2003! I stepped in just to help out and enjoyed being involved so much I continued to manage teams across those first few years. I have kept going back to help out when I can, with whatever I can.
2. What do you enjoy most about volunteering within the Touch Football community?
Definitely the people you meet and the friends you make! My affiliate is so friendly and I absolutely love the socialising in and around the club. I have met some wonderful people who do an amazing job helping out the club which makes me want to help out even more. Also, meeting people from other clubs at tournaments and catching up with them at each event is very enjoyable.
3. Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time volunteering?
Without doubt, it would be when I was asked if I would like to help out with our affiliate All Abilities team at Regionals, Country Championships and State Cup in Port Macquarie. Being involved with this crew has been so rewarding and it has been such an honour to provide them with the opportunity to play tournament Touch Football. I referee that team and I love seeing them get so excited and having so much fun. They have grown into confident players and to be part of their excitement has been such an amazing feeling. They have improved so much and have come a long way, both individually and as a team. I absolutely love being part of their participation in the sport and watching them enjoy the experience.
4. What do you enjoy or love most about Touch Football?
To put it simply I love the sport. It’s so fast and dynamic and is great to watch/play. I love how players develop such a variety of skills and learn valuable life attributes such as being part of a team and keeping fit. I also love going to tournaments and catching up with people I have met over the years. There are so many like-minded people in the Touch Football community and being part of it is very special to me.
5. What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting involved as a volunteer in Touch Football?
If you are looking to get involved with your local affiliate, I strongly suggest heading down there and getting involved. Take that first step, take the leap! I’m so glad that I did as otherwise I would never have known how much I enjoyed being involved with the club and the Touch Football community. There are so many wonderful people throughout the Touch Football community who will welcome you with open arms. There are so many new experiences, adventures and friendships waiting for you!
Nominate someone who:
Gives their time freely Makes a difference around the club Always shows up with heart and a helping hand
Monthly winners will receive:
• A $100 Visa gift card
• A shout-out across NSW Touch social media
Let’s celebrate the good humans who keep our game strong. Nominate your local legend today!