Veteran Rugby coach Clive Nettleton is among the nominees for HSBC Volunteer of the Year, an initiative aimed at recognising the efforts and skills of people who have contributed to the development, promotion and advancement of Rugby Union in Australia.
Clive began coaching at just 18 years of age and has gone on to win a number of premierships with St Ives Rugby Club, Newport Rugby Club, Warringah Rats and St Augustine’s College at both senior and junior levels.
Now 54 years old, Clive spends five nights a week coaching and is dedicated to developing grassroots Rugby. He believes the game thrives on the culture of club Rugby and the enjoyment it brings to players from all walks of life.
“Without volunteers there would be no junior Rugby. Setting up ovals, filling water bottles, running canteens and coaching is all part of the job,” Clive said.
“Volunteers are vital to the sport and the futures of our children, so I urge people to continue to give back to their community.”
Clive considers Rugby to be a game which teaches lessons on and off the field.
“I have been very lucky to have coached some great footballers and met some wonderful people along the way.
“It is rewarding to watch these young kids grow into men, and develop values and morals which will aid them, not just in Rugby, but in life,” Clive said.
This year over a 100 nominees have been put forward for three categories: HSBC Volunteer of the Year; HSBC Young Volunteer of the Year (U25); and HSBC Lifetime Volunteer of the Year.
Through the HSBC Volunteer of the Year initiative, Australian Rugby Union and HSBC are committed to recognising the efforts of thousands of volunteers across the country that go to great lengths to ensure Rugby continues to thrive in their respective communities.
The winning recipient of the 2014 HSBC Volunteer of the Year will be hosted at the John Eales Medal in October, with all three category winners to be announced on the night.
The final judging panel will consist of:
• Greg Clark, FOX SPORTS, Rugby Commentator
• Tony Cripps, CEO, HSBC Bank Australia
• Andrew Larratt, General Manager – Rugby Participation, Australian Rugby Union
• Rachel Hickey, General Manager – Media and Communications, Australian Rugby Union
Nominations for the HSBC Volunteer of the Year close on Friday, 5 September.
If you know someone that you want to nominate for a HSBC Volunteer of the Year award, go to www.rugby.com.au/tryrugby
