Every month, Northern NSW Football have a special award for a club-based volunteer.
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July's volunteer of the month went to Glen Innes and District Football Association's Troy Arandale after his name was put forward by the club for his ongoing commitment and dedication to soccer over a number of years of service.
Arandale was shocked to receive the recognition when the Glen Innes Examiner rang him to congratulate him but was thankful for the honour.
"Firstly, I want to thank Preston Parkes for the nomination and if anyone deserves an award it is him," he said.
I am really looking forward to seeing all the kids take to the paddock next season.
- Troy Arandale
"Although we are not playing soccer this year, we have been busier than ever behind the scenes to ensure we have a A-grade facility come 2021.
"We have a great committee at the Glen Innes football club and everyone does their bit.
"I am really looking forward to seeing all the kids take to the paddock next season."
Arandale's work at the club includes working with the council to ensure fields continue to be upgraded, liaised with the Parks Manager at council for updates and offers assistance with ongoing work, applies for grants to make sure there is funding for continuous improvements at the ground.
Arandale is the president of the Sports Council, where he has tried to help his club and other sports in town work together to get better grants and utilise their grounds, especially the shared ones.
Arandale has been described as "a great asset" to his club and one the region is lucky to have.
The award is sponsored by Newcastle Permanent and Arandale will receive a bag and jacket, which will no doubt be useful when standing on the sidelines in a Glen Innes winter, as part of his award.