Mount Gambier’s Nathan Butler has been named Australia’s 2024 Philips Community Sports Dad of the Year, marking the first South Australian to win this prestigious award in its 11-year history.

The father of three has been recognised for outstanding contribution to local sports. He is the president of Blue Lake Rangers Soccer Club, coaching two teams and serving multiple roles.

Now in its 11th year, the Philips Community Sports Dad of the Year Award honours fathers across Australia who make outstanding contributions to their local sports communities. This year Nathan has been acknowledged with the national award, recognising his outstanding contribution to sport in the region, particularly at the Blue Lake Soccer Club.

Nathan has been an integral part of the Mount Gambier sports community for over 20 years. For three years, he has been the president of the Blue Lake Soccer Club where he wears several hats including a coach of two competitive soccer teams – the Under 12 Development and Under 16 Girls – as well as being a player, referee, club facilities manager and MiniRoos coordinator. 

Beyond soccer, Nathan is also actively involved with the Mount Shank Tennis Club, where his children play, and his wife Belinda serves on the committee. 

For Nathan, sports are more than just games; they are the lifeblood of small towns like Mount Gambier. He believes that sporting clubs are crucial for bringing people together and fostering lifelong friendships.

Reflecting on his win, Nathan said he was deeply honoured to receive this award.

“It’s humbling, especially knowing how many parents dedicate their time and energy to support local sporting clubs across Australia,” he said.

“Being in a rural area, sport brings the community together, and for smaller towns, sporting clubs are the heartbeat all year round. The smiles on the kids’ faces and seeing their development in the sport makes all the effort worthwhile.”

Nathan was nominated by friend Jason Peake who said his efforts are the reason so many people in Mount Gambier feel connected to the community.

Jason recalled a memorable instance during the club’s first round this year when Nathan’s dedication to the club was on full display. 

“Our club round was split across two venues and Nathan was kept busy the entire day. He coached his Under 12’s team, refereed an Under 13’s game, coached his Under 16’s team, and then refereed a Senior Women’s match,” Jason said.

“This is not just a one-off. Nathan does this regularly, showing up early and leaving late, ensuring everything runs smoothly. He is the first person to put up their hand to assist anyone in the club, and always does it without the need for a thank you.”

A typical week for Nathan involves a whirlwind of activities such as coaching, refereeing, marking pitches, setting up fields, assisting in the canteen and organising fundraising events. 

Nathan said one of the things he is most proud of is how the club navigated the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“COVID-19 was a big challenge for our club. When sport stopped, getting it back up and running again and re-engaging our young athletes took a lot of work. Many times, it’s not the best players who are great club people. Welcome them in, and they’ll want to stay and be a part of the club however they can,” Nathan said.

Looking ahead, Nathan will donate his $5000 Rebel Sport voucher prize to the Blue Lake Soccer Club to purchase new training equipment and balls for the upcoming season. 

“This will benefit our players and help us continue to grow the sport in our community. It’s a great feeling to give back and ensure we have the resources to support all of our young athletes,” he said.

It will not come as a surprise that you will find Nathan with his family, wife Belinda and children Ben (17), Zoe (14) and Jai (10), at the club on Father’s Day. 

“It’s grand final day at the club and we have four teams competing for premierships including the Under 12’s team that I coach. I’m hoping we can get a few wins – that would be a perfect Father’s Day present,” he said.

Nathan’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on their community, inspiring others in Mount Gambier to get involved with sport at a local level.

“I’m grateful to Jason for the nomination and to Philips for this award – I know the importance of sponsorships for community sports. It’s a privilege to serve my community, and I’m thankful for the support of my family and everyone at the club,” Nathan said.

Recently, Nathan was also recognised with a 2024 Barker Volunteer Award by Tony Pasin MP for his services to the community.

Philips’ partnership with the Community Sports Dad of the Year Award highlights the brand’s commitment to celebrating the contributions of dads like Nathan, who play a crucial role in fostering local sports communities. 

For more information about the Philips Community Sports Dad of the Year award, visit sportsdads.com.au