11/10/2026
Each year, Softball Australia seek nominations for their annual awards, this year we nominated three individuals for service awards (for over a decade of service to softball) and they were all included in this year's honours (see below). If you want to nominate someone for a service award, please email [email protected].
Sandra Drummond: In the 1990's, Sandra was a member in the Hills Softball Association and was a Manager of several Boys/Mens State Teams. Due to a work relocation, Sandra spent some time away from the sport, but when she returned, she picked up where she left off, volunteering her time for state teams. Which has since turned into a position on the State Teams Committee (STC). She has also been a Softball SA Volunteer of the year for the last three years as a member of the Australian Masters Games (AMG) Working Group (2024), Individually recognised for all her volunteer roles, especially supporting Softball SA events and facilitating the Men's Forum and Club Development forum (2025), and last year as a member of the STC.
Joanne Liddell: starting out in the sport as a 'softball mum' Jo's contribution has been exemplary, not only with the Hills Softball Association but with the State Office, State Teams, and Softball SA events. Jo has been awarded the Softball SA Chair award (2021) and Softball SA Volunteer of the Year three times; Individually (2018), and part of the AMG Working Group (2024) and STC (2026).
Graham O'Neill: this year, after 35 years of grounds maintenance, Graham made the decision to retire. Learning the ropes from some legends like Lyle Tyler, Bruce Strapps, Alan Price and the great Roo Weaver, Graham has become a legend himself. He found his home at Sturt Softball Club where he dedicated his Saturdays either coaching or umpiring, and was always up for a chat (and a b**r). He often said that meeting people from all clubs was his favourite part of the job and it will always be an honour to serve. Graham was awarded the Softball SA Volunteer of the Year in 2014. We already miss him but hope he's enjoying retirement.
Congratulations to the 2026 Softball Australia Service Award recipients! π₯
Your dedication, leadership and passion have made a lasting impact across your communities and the wider softball family.
Thank you for growing and strengthening the game we love ππ