When Chris Breckell filled in for a touch football team over 20 years ago, he unknowingly embarked on a volunteer journey that saw him fill roles such as Player, Vice President, Canteen Assistant, Coach, and Referee with Mackay Touch.
The humble volunteer was named NRL Touch Football’s Volunteer of the Month and shared the story of his journey, starting all those years ago.
“Once I started to get involved in the club and people heard I was an accountant, I was approached to join the board, and I’m still involved now, 20 years later,” Chris said.
Chris shared kudos with his wife Annette who also invests a lot of time and effort into Mackay Touch, the couple personifying what Touch Football is about: inclusiveness, fun and friendship.
It’s the social element of touch that Chris loves best, as he gets to watch mums, dads and kids all join in.
“It’s wonderful to see the joy the sport can bring to a family and the memories they’ll have forever,” he said.
“It’s a testament to the inclusiveness and enjoyment the sport provides.
“I always remind the kids not to forget the 3-letter word ‘fun’.
“Whether they win or lose, it’s about having fun and making friendships with those you play with.”
Chris also has some impressive coaching accolades to his name, leading his team to the U9 North Queensland Junior championship before going back-to-back a year later with the same group of boys in the U10.
“It was great to see the boys stick together over the years and that happened through the bond and friendships they created,” he said.
“It’s worth all the time and effort when you see the kids having fun and creating new friendships.”
As Volunteer of the Month, Chris is now in the running for Volunteer of the Year, and he already has plans for the $5,000 paint project prize.
“The clubhouse needs a new facelift so I would put the paint towards that,” he said.
“It’s a great club and we’re fighting hard to keep it that way!”
Mackay Touch Volunteer Chris Breckell. Photo supplied: NRL Touch Football
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