Local AFL Hero Ian Parker Honoured by Sports NSW
Ian Parker of Pennant Hills Demons has been recognised by Sport NSW for his extraordinary contributions to ALF as a player, coach, official and senior administrator for more than 60 years.
The AFL NSW Senior Life Member will be presented with the Distinguished Long Service Honour on Monday, June 30 at the CommBank Stadium in Parramatta.
Parker, who moved from Tasmania in 1990, is among 19 recipients who will be honoured. The awards recognise individual officials, coaches, administrators, and organisers who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to nurturing and promoting sport for over 25 years.
Extremely surprised
“I was extremely surprised in being recognised for the long service award,” Parker said. He began his AFL career way back in 1956 as a schoolboy player. There seems to be no role he has not undertaken in the code over the years. He served as president of his club and Director of the State Football league for eight years.
In NSW, Parker joined Westbrook Junior AFL Club, becoming a representative team manager. He also coached and managed junior club and representative squads for nine years. In 1998, he joined the Senior Club committee while being a league talent identification scout, Tribunal Chairman and AFL timekeeper for Representative, AFL, and VFL games in the state.
“The Distinguished Long Service Honour presented to Ian is a testament to his selfless commitment and lasting impact. He has contributed countless hours over many years to ensure others can enjoy the benefits of sport,” said Sport NSW Chairperson, Chris Hall. “Individuals like Ian have been the backbone of their sport within their community.”
Parker, who is married to Sally, has a daughter Fabienne, son Sebastian, and granddaughters Molly and Daisy. Sebastian plays AFL with Pennant Hills and skippered the dual Premier Division teams in 2006 and 2008.
Parker’s original team was North Hobart and he played in premiership teams. Currently, he assisting the Demons with administration matters, having served as Vice President/Administration Manager, and many other roles.
“(There have been) many changes over the years with the growth of AFL in Sydney,” he said. “More recently, unfortunately, the lack of volunteers is a major concern for most community clubs”
In 2016, Parker was presented with the prestigious AFL award.
