Phil Shelley Award

Phil Shelley Award

Named after the inaugural Academy Executive Officer who laid the foundations for the development of the Academy.The Phil Shelley award recognises an individual of the Gippsland Sports Academy community who has provided outstanding service and contribution.

This award can go to any individual whether it’s a coach, administrator or volunteer in the Gippsland region.

  • To acknowledge an individual who has made a positive difference to the GSA, or sport in Gippsland, through support and encouragement, often with self-sacrifice and without personal gain.
  • A genuine desire to help others, a chosen sport or the academy
  • Has shown respect for other coaches, officials, players and other volunteers.
  • The individual must demonstrate they go beyond their normal duties to assist in the development of the sport and the athletes involved.

Nominations for this award to be sought through the current GSA network i.e Gippstar, Coaches

Past Winners:

2025Jude BergmannHockey
2024Kelly GodfreyHockey
2023Dan AuteriSwimming
2022Joanne BallingerNetball
2021Judi BuhagiarNetball
2020Keith FergusonClay Target Shooting
2019Brian FordSwimming
2018Dave JonesClay Target Shooting
2017Jackie MaddenSwimming
2016Donna RowandSwimming
Alex-Vuillermin-rowing

The Gippsland Sports Academy has played a significant role in shaping me both as an athlete and as a person. From a young age, my involvement in volleyball, progressing into rowing, helped me develop a strong, disciplined mindset of consistency and accountability. The support, coaching, and high-performance environment encouraged me to push through comfort zones while maintaining focus under pressure, while also bridging opportunities with the Victorian Institute of Sport. The Academy also taught me how to carry myself with professionalism and composure on the world stage, representing not just myself but my team, region, and country. The Gippsland Sports Academy will forever hold a place in my heart. 

~ Alex Vuillermin