Nominated for his commitment and service to the club and to football, Phil has coached at Bellingen FC for over 20 years, and spent the better part of 50 years teaching the finer points of the game.

He is the club's 'floating' coach at the moment, offering other local coaches sessions on skills, tactics and specific player roles.

Phil has been described as an "invaluable resource" for the club's coaches and is a great supporter of players and teams.

Northern NSW Football Community Football Manager Ross Hicks says that committed people like Phil are important for the future of the game.

"Coaching is one of the most crucial factors in the football experience for our players," NNSWF Community Football Manager Ross Hicks said.

"It is important that coaches like Phil maintain the great work they are doing at Bellingen FC so that their players develop a fondness for the game and continue to have the best football experience possible."

Newcastle Permanent Coffs Harbour Branch Lending Manager Erica Farag congratulated Phil on becoming the recipient of the North Coast Football Newcastle Permanent Community Coach of the Year Award.

"Coaches like Phil play a vital role in developing the skills and attitudes of young players and it's a pleasure to recognise his vital contribution," Farag said.

Newcastle Permanent is the major partner of Community Football across northern NSW and has partnered with NNSWF since 2008.

Woolgoolga's Jada Johnson was awarded the Permanent Volunteer of the Year for 2021.

She has played first grade, been club registrar and treasurer for six years. She is the first one to put her hand up to do whatever is needed to help the club on and off the field.

Sean McFarlane was crowned as the Permanent Referee of the Year for 2021.

He officiates matches for North Coast Football and has shown true dedication and passion for the game.

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