Congratulations Linley Kenny!
NSWTA are proud to award Wallsend Touch Association’s very own, Linley Kenny, as Volunteer of the Month for November 2025
Linley devotes approximately 20 hours per week to the All Abilities program, chipping away behind the scenes ensuring the program is enjoyable and runs smoothly. She also plays a key role in managing merchandise for representative teams and organising prizes for club grand finals. Additionally, she assists with the Associations canteen operations by promptly restocking essential items as needed.
To share some of Linley’s story, we asked her:
- What motivated you to start volunteering with your local Touch Association, and how long have you been involved?
My journey with Wallsend Touch began when I played my first game there at around 14 years old. Years later, when my own children started playing Representative Touch, I began as a team manager — and that’s really where my volunteering began.
Since then, I’ve taken on many different roles within the club, each one giving me a chance to give back to a community that has given me so much. The role I’ve enjoyed the most is coaching and coordinating our All Abilities program.
It’s hard to believe, but that started about twelve years ago
2. What do you enjoy most about volunteering within the Touch Football community?
What I enjoy most about volunteering in touch football is the sense of community it brings. The people — the friendships that grow, the families that come together, and the supportive environment that feels like home. Volunteering has given me lifelong friendships, a sense of belonging, and the chance to make a positive difference in areas I never dreamed I would be involved in.
3. Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time volunteering?
NSW State Cup 2024 & 2025 with our All Abilities team was something truly special. Being able to step onto the field and play alongside this incredible group is the greatest honour I’ve experienced in all my years with Touch Football.
At our last tournament, the Wallsend All Abilities coaching staff talked about a simple but powerful question:
“Would you rather win a State Cup with your club players, or play at State Cup with our All Abilities team?” And every single coach answered, without even a moment of hesitation:
“Play with our All Abilities team at State.”
That says everything. The joy, the spirit, the heart of this team — it’s unmatched. And it’s a privilege to be part of it.
4. What do you enjoy or love most about Touch Football?
It’s the people who make it meaningful, the fun that keeps it enjoyable, the fulfilment that makes it rewarding, and the game that brings us all together.
5. What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting involved as a volunteer in Touch Football?
My advice is: DO IT, Step in, get involved, don’t be afraid to start small. You’ll soon discover that volunteering isn’t just about helping out — it’s about becoming part of a community.
You’ll meet great people, make connections, and find yourself surrounded by a supportive network that feels like family. And the impact you make, whether it’s on players, teams, their families or the wider club, is incredibly rewarding. Take the first step – You wont regret it.
Every Touch Football club has those legends who just… make things happen. The ones who set alarms earlier than the sun to mark fields, fire up the BBQ without being asked, organise teams, support our referees, or jump in wherever help is needed. They’re the heartbeat of our affiliates, and our game wouldn’t run without them.
NSW Touch wants to celebrate those everyday heroes.
Each month, we’ll highlight one amazing volunteer who has gone above and beyond for their club. There are so many brilliant people out there, so help us find them!
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!