12 August 2026
Central Coast Mariners goalkeeper and Socceroos hero Andrew Redmayne has been named the 2026 Community Sports Dad of the Year Ambassador, helping shine a light on the dads and father figures who make grassroots sport possible across Australia.
A father to Poppy and Banjo, Redmayne understands the important role sport can play in the lives of children and families, as well as the enormous contribution made by the volunteers behind every local club.
“As a dad, I’ve already seen how much community sport gives kids. It’s not just about learning the game – it’s about building confidence, friendships and creating memories that last a lifetime,” Redmayne said.
“Behind every team are mums, dads and volunteers who give up countless hours to make those experiences possible.
“This award is a chance to recognise the dads who make such a big difference to their clubs and local communities. If you know a dad who’s always there for the kids and never asks for anything in return, I’d encourage you to nominate him.”
A Socceroos hero supporting grassroots sport
Redmayne is one of Australian football’s most recognisable goalkeepers and famously played a decisive role in helping the Socceroos qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, coming off the bench for the penalty shootout against Peru and making the match-winning save.
Now playing for the Central Coast Mariners, Redmayne has also previously been recognised as a finalist in the Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year.
His role as 2026 Ambassador will see him help encourage Australians to recognise the dads and father figures whose contribution to sport often happens away from the spotlight.
They are the dads coaching junior teams, managing sides, fundraising, marking fields, driving kids to training and games, and taking on the countless other jobs that keep local sporting clubs running.
Nominations Now Open!
Recognising the dads behind grassroots sport
Now in its 13th year, the Community Sports Dad of the Year celebrates the contribution dads and father figures make to their families, sporting clubs and local communities.
The winning dad’s sporting club will receive a $5,000 Rebel Sport voucher to help purchase new sporting equipment or apparel.
The winning Community Sports Dad will also receive a Philips Reverse Osmosis Water Station, valued at $1,299 RRP, while the person who submits the winning nomination will receive a Philips Multigroom 7000, valued at $229 RRP.
Nominations are free, with Australians invited to explain in 100 words or less why their Community Sports Dad deserves to be recognised.
Nominations close Thursday, 27 August 2026, with the winner to be announced ahead of Father’s Day.
