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.
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.
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.
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.
