23 August 2026
Nominations closing soon
With nominations closing this Thursday, the search for Australia’s 2026 Community Sports Dad of the Year is gathering momentum across the country.
Media outlets, sporting organisations and community clubs have been helping spread the word, encouraging Australians to recognise the dads who give their time and energy to grassroots sport.
Now in its 13th year, the award has again uncovered some incredible stories of dads coaching teams, volunteering at clubs, fundraising, supporting young athletes and simply being there week after week.
Last year’s winner, Nick Franklin from the Gympie & District Hockey Association, was recognised for his dedication to junior sport and the countless hours he gives to his local hockey community.
His story is just one example of the many dads across Australia whose contribution to grassroots sport often happens quietly behind the scenes.
Community Sports Dad in the media
The search has been gaining media attention across Australia, with outlets helping spread the call for nominations.
Tasmania Times – Nominations Now Open for Australia’s 2026 Community Sports Dad of the Year
Read the story →
Noosa Today – Call-out for Sports Dad of the Year
Read the story →
Forbes Phoenix – Nominations Now Open for Australia’s 2026 Community Sports Dad of the Year
Read the story →
Community Sports Dad of the Year Founder Paul Masluk said the response again showed just how important dads and volunteers are to local sport.
“Every nomination tells a different story, but they all highlight people who give their time because they care about their kids, their clubs and their communities.
“It’s been great to see clubs, sporting organisations and media getting behind the search. With only a few days remaining, we’d love to hear about even more of the dads making a difference around Australia.”
Final days to nominate
Nominations close Thursday, 27 August 2026, with the winning dad’s sporting club receiving a $5,000 Rebel Sport voucher to help purchase new sporting equipment or apparel.
The winning dad will also receive a Philips Reverse Osmosis Water Station valued at $1,299 RRP, with a Philips Multigroom 7000 for the person who submits the winning nomination.
Know a dad who deserves some recognition?
