By CASEY NEILL
CLUB Noble took out two top awards at a state-wide celebration for community clubs.
Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) presented 32 awards at a gala night at the Sofitel in Melbourne on Saturday 16 April.
Noble Park’s Club Noble was a finalist in seven categories and took home the Club President of the Year for Barry Bradshaw and Best Youth Development Program for Bulls Roar.
Judges looked for a president who, over the past year, had volunteered many hours supporting the club and committee, provided strong leadership and demonstrated a strategic approach to the club’s sustainability.
The youth development category rewarded fostering youth participation in sports while incorporating skill development and nurturing talent in a safe environment.
Mr Bradshaw said Club Noble had worked with Noble Park Junior Football Club to design the Bulls Roar leadership development program, and it encouraged youths to engage in sports in the local community.
“This program is aimed at providing life-skills to the young to help them achieve their full potential at school, in sport, and also life in general,” he said.
Mr Bradshaw said more than 700 students had participated in one-hour clinics over the past 12 months.
“The program not only gives participants the opportunity to practice various team and individual leadership skills, it also shows them how they can make a difference not only with their team sports, but also at school, home and in the community,” he said.
Club Noble’s other finalists included Prabh Singh for the chef award, Barry Moylan for the club official title, Mick O’Toole in the assistant manager/supervisor category, and Mark Hogan for the metro club manager honour.
The club’s multicultural netball club project was a finalist for Best Community Support Project.
CCV is the peak body for 1600 not-for-profit and licensed venues across the state.