Fujitsu General Australia as a major co-partner of Essendon FC is proud to announce Erin Phillips as the recipient of the 2024 Fujitsu General Australia Football Woman of the Year Award. The award was presented during the Fujitsu General Australia Grand Final Comedy Roast at Crown Palladium on Thursday, in recognition of Phillips' outstanding contributions to women's sport throughout her decorated career.

Phillips, a three-time AFLW premiership player, two-time league best and fairest, and former WNBA champion, has significantly impacted the growth of women’s football. Her on-field achievements and advocacy for women in sport have inspired the next generation of female athletes. Beyond her athletic success, Phillips has been a key figure in supporting fellow AFLW players, using her platform to combat social media negativity and promote inclusivity within the sport.

Phillips expressed her gratitude for the recognition, saying, "I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this award, especially alongside such inspiring nominees. Football is my passion, and I’m committed to continuing to build the game and inspire young athletes to pursue AFLW."

As part of her award, Phillips will donate the prize money to her junior football club, SMOSH West Lakes, covering registration fees for the club’s girls’ team in 2025. "Coaching my daughter’s under-10s team at my junior club is something that means a lot to me. The funds will go towards ensuring the girls are well-supported for the next season," Phillips said.

In addition to Phillips, the Community Award was presented to Kellie Burns, President of the Northcote Junior Football Club, for her dedication to creating pathways for junior girls in the sport. Burns has been a tireless advocate for women’s football and a strong role model in her community, working to provide opportunities for young female athletes to thrive.

Fujitsu General Australia is honoured to celebrate these exceptional women who have made a lasting impact on Australian Rules Football, driving the advancement of women in the sport and inspiring future generations.

2024 Football Woman of the Year Nominees:

  • Erin Phillips (winner) – AFLW commentator, former AFLW and WNBA champion
  • Alex Morcom – Essendon AFLW player
  • Marnie Vinall – Sports reporter at The Age
  • Tanya Gallina – General Manager Commercial Operations and Partnerships at MCC
  • Bec Daniher – Campaign Director at FightMND
  • Chris Summers – Partnerships Accounts Manager at West Coast Eagles

2024 Community Award Nominees:

  • Kellie Burns (winner) – Northcote Junior Football Club
  • Sharlene Higginson – Merrifield Panthers Football Club
  • Ella Stephenson – Monash Blues Women’s
  • Deanne Coates – Melville Dockers, West Coast Eagles AFLW

Fujitsu General Australia remains committed to supporting and celebrating women in football, recognising their significant contributions at all levels of the game.

 

by Fujitsu General Australia | Oct 02, 2024