2 August 2024

As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Philips Sports Dad of the Year award, it’s the perfect moment to look back and celebrate its journey. This award shines a spotlight on amazing sports dads who juggle their careers with family life, and it’s been showcasing some truly inspiring stories. Take our very first winner, Wests Tigers NRL legend John Skandalis. Not only did he win the award, but he also generously donated his prize to the Starlight Foundation, capturing the spirit of what this award is all about. Known affectionately as Skando, this dad of two lovely girls, Olivia and Sophia, shares his incredible journey, thoughts, and tips for fellow sports dads.

NRL star & Inaugural Sports Dad of the Year winner John Skandalis pictured with his girls Sophie (white) and Olivia.

Balancing Sports and Family: Words of Wisdom

When asked about balancing the demands of a sports career with family responsibilities, Skandalis emphasises the fleeting nature of childhood. “You really only get about 18 summers with your kids until they’re at an age where they would prefer to spend time with their friends, so I’d say to make those 18 summers count. Take the time to make fun memories together. Whenever you get a day off, take charge and plan a fun day out with your kids and your partner,” he advises. This perspective highlights the importance of cherishing every moment and making the most of the time spent with family.

Quality Time with Grown Daughters

As his daughters have grown into adults, Skandalis continues to find joy in their company through various adventurous activities. “The girls are great company & fun to hang out with. We love adventure, so I’ve been skydiving with them, and we enjoy things like Tree Tops Adventure Park, rock climbing, hiking, and cycling. We also enjoy simple things like having a movie night and playing cards together,” he shares. This mix of fun and simple activities shows how important it is to stay close and make lasting memories, no matter how old you are.

Early Encouragement and Support

Reflecting on his own childhood, Skandalis credits his father for nurturing his interest in sports. “My father encouraged me to be involved in soccer at an early age before I moved onto Rugby League. He encouraged me to continue with the path that I wanted to take and to do whatever made me happy,” he recalls. This early support was key to his journey and highlights how important parents are in nurturing their kids’ passions.

Recognising Unsung Heroes

This year, the Philips Sports Dad of the Year award also focuses on local Community Sports Dads who volunteer their time to benefit their local sports community. Skandalis is a strong advocate for this recognition. “Sporting clubs wouldn’t be able to run without volunteers, they just wouldn’t exist. They really are the unsung heroes,” he states. He fondly remembers Greg & Bronwyn Bolton and Ken Simmons from the Minto Cobras, who coached and treated the young players like family. “I have a great deal of respect and gratitude for them. As an adult, I now understand the amount of time and effort they all put into our team.”

Rising Parental Support in Rugby League

Given his ongoing involvement with the Wests Tigers, Skandalis has observed a significant rise in parental support within the local sports community. “Yes, I have definitely seen a rise in parental support. Rugby League is such a popular sport, particularly in the Macarthur area, where parents are keen to see their kids succeed and one day play for the Wests Tigers. I think parents are aware of the physical and mental health benefits of being active and the life lessons we learn from being part of a team,” he explains. This growing involvement shows how the community recognises the many benefits of playing sports.

Personal Passions and Hobbies

Beyond his public persona, Skandalis enjoys cooking, a passion that stems from a desire to support his wife’s dietary needs and connect with his Greek heritage. “My wife has Coeliac Disease, and it can be a struggle to eat out at certain places. I developed a love for cooking in an attempt to recreate dishes that are safe for her to eat. My kids love my moussaka, bolognese, and our pizzas made from scratch,” he reveals. This personal touch makes his role as a dedicated family man even more special.

Inspirations and Role Models

While Skandalis didn’t have a single athlete or celebrity he looked up to, his love for all sports shaped his outlook. “There was no one person I looked up to, I just loved all sports and didn’t have a favourite celebrity,” he notes. His love for all sports shows his genuine passion and dedication.

A Legacy of Dedication

John Skandalis’ story is a testament to the enduring impact of the Philips Sports Dad of the Year award. His journey, from an NRL star to a dedicated father and community advocate, embodies the spirit of the award. As we celebrate 15 years of honouring sports dads, his reflections and advice serve as an inspiration for all.

To nominate a local sports dad for this year’s award, visit sportsdads.com.au. Let’s continue to recognise and celebrate the incredible dads who keep our local sports communities thriving.

You can now nominated a dad that inspires your local sports community

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