30 January 2012
AFL Townsville Football Operations Manager Bill Whitburn has been honoured as Townsville City Council’s 2012 Sports Administrator of the Year.
The Sports Administrator of the Year is awarded by the city council to someone who has made a significant contribution as a coach, official or administrator.
Whitburn received his award in a ceremony as part of Townsville City Council’s Australia Day celebrations on 26 January.
The win reflects Whitburn’s contribution to Townsville AFL across eight years in a number of different roles, including as a player, umpire and administrator.
As Football Operations Manager, Whitburn’s role oversees the day-to-day running of senior AFL competitions in Townsville as well as ensuring game days run smoothly.
In 2011, Whitburn was the driving force behind the introduction of a colts competition in Townsville, promoting the development of 17 and 18-year-old footballers in the region.
Furthermore, over his time with the league Whitburn has re-written important league administration documents and developed a team manager’s handbook for Townsville club personnel to use.
AFL Queensland’s Townsville Regional Manager Peter Young nominated Whitburn for his dedication to the successful operation of Townsville AFL.
“Bill has prided himself by ensuring that AFL Townsville is a key sporting body in the Townsville region into the future,” Young said in his nomination letter.
“AFL Townville clubs, members and supporters are indebted to Bill for his outstanding performance over a number of years.”
Whitburn will continue in his role as Football Operations Manager at AFL Townsville for the 2012 season.
