By Greg Danvers
NEWCASTLE High’s Levi Segal and Maribyrnong’s Ella Lee were awarded the Bill Turner Spirit of Football awards at the National Finals at Speers Point on Wednesday 4 September, 2024.
Bill Turner OA valued participation, sportsmanship and commitment. For Bill, football was more about character than ability and success. The Spirit of Football award honours players whose approach to the game exemplifies values that Bill prized.
Levi (pictured above with Lloyd Turner) and the Newcastle High School team finished third, from over 800 teams from Cairns in the north and south to Geelong, at the National Finals Series at Speers Point last week. Maribyrnong Secondary College also finished third at the tournament.
Newcastle High School coach and visual arts teacher Mr Michael Kondov wrote in Levi’s nomination: “He has scored several goals this tournament to secure our spot in the tournament, yet he does it with such humility, placing our victories on the team as a whole.
“But he is more than that. He is a great kid with a heart of gold that supports his teammates and encourages them to play their best.
“Levi treats all players with respect and tells them to keep their chin up when mistakes happen.
“Every game he has put his body on the line, leading by example, never complaining and just getting the job done.
“Levi is a role model on and off the pitch, always friendly to teachers, officials, coaching staff and parents.”
Lloyd Turner, son of the late Bill Turner OA, presented Levi with his award.
“I believe there is no other player that has demonstrated the character and sportsmanship than Levi has,” concluded Mr Kondov.
“Levi is truly deserving of this award.”
Similarly Ella (pictured below with Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery) demonstrated the attributes to be judged the best in the Trophy competition.
Mr Adrian Mazzarella, Technical Director of Football and Health & Physical Education Teacher at the Maribyrnong Sports Academy wrote: “Ella Lee is a remarkable candidate for the Spirit of Football Award due to her exemplary embodiment of the values that define true sportsmanship and leadership.
“Throughout the season, Ella has consistently demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and fair play, treating both opponents and match officials with the utmost respect and consideration.
“Her positive attitude has been a cornerstone of team harmony, always prioritizing the collective success over personal accolades.
“Ella’s commitment to team performance is unwavering, and she regularly puts her team’s needs ahead of her own. Her cooperative spirit extends to her work with coaching staff, where her persistent dedication and constructive feedback have been invaluable.
“Ella’s approach to challenges is always uncomplaining and solution-oriented, and her involvement in community events has further highlighted her commitment to the broader values of football. Her actions on and off the field make her a true embodiment of the Spirit of Football Award.”
More information about the Spirit of Football Award here.
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