Congratulations Andrew Smith!
NSWTA would like to open up our Inaugural Volunteer of the Month Program by awarding Bankstown Touch Associations President, Andrew Smith for September 2025.
Andrew plays a major part in keeping the heartbeat of Bankstown TA —organising events, refereeing matches, mentoring fellow referees, and chairing both meetings and our dedicated committee. No task is beneath him, whether it’s manning the Bunnings BBQ, setting up fields, or supporting representative teams. His commitment and versatility keep everything running smoothly.
To share some of Andrew’s story, we asked him:
- What motivated you to start volunteering with your local Touch Association, and how long have you been involved? “Always loved and been involved in various sports. My parents were involved with my junior soccer club, and I think that rubbed off on me. I started refereeing in 1999 at Liverpool Touch Association guided by Frank Dryden and Barry Ruttle and joined their committee a couple of years later. Found my way to Bankstown Touch in 2011 and been there ever since in a few different roles.”
- What do you enjoy most about volunteering within the Touch Football community? “The passion people have for the game and their clubs/region/state and country. There are so many outstanding people involved in so many roles. It’s inspiring and infectious.”
- Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time volunteering? “Just one…… Personally it would have to be getting selected to officiate at the 2015 World Cup. To be able to represent on the international stage is an honour that is hard to go past. Refereeing a match between the Australian Mens team and Bankstown Mens team at Vale of Ah was pretty memorable too. From a club perspective seeing 108 junior sides at the Jets gala day is a thrill. To see the future of the sport amongst the chaos and the amount of work the club volunteers get done is surreal.”
- What do you enjoy or love most about Touch Football? “The camaraderie in general but especially at tournaments. The referee tent has a great feel and I know club tents and teams also share a special bond. The NSW Touch Referees Coaching Panel share this as well. While the days can be long where else would you want to be?”
- What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting involved as a volunteer in Touch Football? “Talk to your local club and see where your skills can be used. There will be something you can do which will help. Every club appreciates their volunteer workforce regardless of what you bring. You will build a network and you never know where it might lead. You might find yourself at a World Cup.”
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!