The Strikers head the list of this year’s Newcastle Permanent Community Award annual winners in the zone.

“We give the [club of the year] award each year based on how the club interacts with the football community,” Macquarie Football’s general manager, Warren Read, said.

“This year, Morisset showed excellence in registering their players and officials (using MyFootball Club and SportingPulse), being on top of any incidents (even before Macquarie Football found out about them and spoke to the club), having well-run match days, their general willingness to get along with other clubs and also the positive feedback from parents and players on how they were treated.

“Also, from Macquarie Football’s point of view, the club’s willingness to take advice on board without being argumentative at all was appreciated and didn’t go unrecognised. Congratulations, Morisset.”

Morisset United Football Club president Dainis Masens said the award was reward for hard work.

“I was very surprised to receive this prestigious award on behalf of the club. Our committee has worked hard to make Morriset United Football Club a successful club, so it was very rewarding to receive this honour,” Mr Masens said.

“It also reflects the good work and attitude of all our members. 

“This is the first time that the club has received this award so it was a very special occasion. For a volunteer-based community club it is good to get recognition for the hard work that we all put in.”

Tim Melville, of Westlakes Wildcats, was named coach of the year.

Mr Melville was never short on praise and encouragement for his junior players, Mr Read said.

“Tim treats each child equally with respect and attention, showing and encouraging them the best way to reach their potential. He instills in the team the understanding that winning with integrity is more important than just winning and that losing with integrity is equally important.”

Mr Read said Mr Melville was a “fantastic coach but a fantastic role model for kids”. 

Stuart Hansen was named referee of the year.

Mr Hansen referees both community and premier competition football each weekend. He is also involved with the administration of Macquarie Referees and its work with community clubs in the Macquarie Football zone.

“Stuart is a hard worker, who is committed to the game and has great prospect to advance to higher levels of football,” Mr Read said.

Alissia Jackson, of Cardiff Junior Football Club, was named volunteer of the year.

Newcastle Permanent chief executive officer Terry Millett said Newcastle Permanent was proud to honour those who gave up their time to assist their community.

“Without the dedication of volunteers, coaches and match officials such as these generous people - grassroots sports including football, would not survive. These committed people make it possible for kids to lead active, healthy lives,” Mr Millett said.