3rd April, 2025 — Good Sports awards
Margaret Nettleship crowned 2024 Volunteer of the Year!
Margaret Nettleship has been named the National and Victorian Volunteer of the Year in the Good Sports Awards, recognising her outstanding dedication to the Mornington Peninsula Hockey Club and her lifelong commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming sporting environment.
Hosted by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in April 2025, the Awards ceremony recognised Good Sports clubs and their dedicated volunteers from across the country who are passionate about community, reducing harms from alcohol and other drugs, and making their club the very best it can be.
A champion for juniors
Neroli Blyth from Mornington Peninsula Hockey Club said Marg’s impact on the club and its members, especially juniors, has been profound.
"Marg has been the heart and soul of our club since its inception in 1995. As a founding member, coach, and volunteer, she has shaped the culture of our club with her passion, commitment, and unwavering belief in creating a safe and inclusive space for all players,” Ms Blyth said.
"Her advocacy for alcohol-free junior matches and social events has helped establish a culture where participation, enjoyment, and wellbeing come first. Long before it became standard practice, Marg was leading the way in ensuring our juniors had positive role models and a safe sporting environment.
"Even after stepping away from playing due to health challenges, Marg remains an active and invaluable member of our club – coaching young players, managing equipment, and mentoring the next generation of hockey players.
"Marg’s influence extends far beyond our club, she is a respected figure in the hockey community, having represented Victoria and Australia in Masters competitions. Her recognition as Volunteer of the Year is a testament to her tireless efforts, and we are incredibly proud to have her as part of our club."
Hockey Victoria – a proud partner of Good Sports
Mornington Peninsula Hockey Club is a Hockey Victoria club. Good Sports have partnered with Hockey Victoria to support hockey clubs across Victoria to reduce harms from alcohol and other drugs.
Hockey Victoria has delivered Good Sports presentations to regional associations and clubs, an alcohol management workshop and promotion of Good Sports resources and opportunities directly to clubs.
The partnership is already seeing great results, with new hockey clubs coming on board to Good Sports and existing Good Sports clubs progressing through the program.
Good Sports and Hockey Victoria will continue to work together to support all Victorian hockey clubs in creating a healthier, safer and more family friendly environment for all.