Local hero nominated for FFA award

Beechboro’s Asefa Woldemariam was shocked to discover a few weeks ago a letter from Football Federation Australia announcing that he was a finalist for the 2010 Australian Coach of the Year Award.

Related topics: football (soccer)

05 October 2010

“I opened it up and read the letter but I couldn’t believe it,” said Mr Woldemariam.

“As a finalist, for me it is a big achievement and encouragement to do better and be more committed to football.”

Many in the local community who have been affected by Mr Woldemariam’s deeds would unhesitatingly put his name forward for such an award, considering his selfless commitment and contribution to developing local youths, recent arrivals and the world game.

From torrid times growing up in a politically unstable part of Africa to a humble start in his adopted home of Australia, Mr Woldemariam has always seen the need for harmonious community.

Since 2004 he has helped grow a program in Maylands that brings youths from all backgrounds together for football and mentorship in a fun environment.

His affable, approachable and pragmatic outlook on life is vital by day as he heads security for a local medical clinic which often treats temperamental and troubled patients.

This approach reflects his community-minded approach as coach of the community-based program; United Maylands Junior Football Club (UMJFC).

“UMJFC is planning to enter a team into mainstream competition as current target for the sport committee, as mainstream entry players will develop their game and build the competitiveness they need playing against other clubs,” said Mr Woldemariam.

The handful of finalists from around the country feature in the categories of Volunteer of the Year, Coach of the Year (male), Coach of the Year (female) and Referee of the Year are flown to Sydney as a guest of honour for a glitzy evening amidst current players and legends of the game in Australia.

As part of the trip Mr Woldemariam will stay on in Sydney after the awards night to catch the Socceroos play Paraguay in a friendly, which unfortunately means he will miss seeing a team from the club participate in its first ever tournament; the Multicultural Friendship Games on Langley Park on Sunday 10 October.

The Coach of the Year will be announced on October 7.