Jordan Parsonage’s journey into Touch Football started in the high school library - of all places - with the Librarian suggesting she should give the sport a go. After School, Jordan joined Northern Suburbs Touch whilst attending university, where her involvement evolved into more than just a playing capacity. Jordan has held various position at North’s which have helped the cub grow and offer more opportunities for their ever-growing members.
Jordan has loved the positive impact the sport has had on others, especially through the All-Abilities program, which has become a cherished part of the club. Jordan epitomises the community spirit that exists at North’s and has been a driving force in the club’s recent success.
As our Volunteer of the Month for October, we spoke to Jordan about her playing days, some of her favourite memories and the community that exists at Northern Suburbs Touch.
Can you tell us how you became involved in Touch Football?
I first got involved in Touch Football when I was in high school. It was actually the librarian at my school who recommended I give Touch a go - It’s funny how these things can come about.
I continued playing Touch Football during my schooling days and once I began attending University I moved to Northern Suburbs Touch, to be closer to my campus. After joining Norths, I quickly found myself helping with off-field responsibilities. I jumped into the Representative position and have kept helping out since then. We were a small club when I first joined and the key to its success has been everyone pitching in and helping out – many hands make light work!
What do you enjoy/love the most about Touch Football?
I really enjoy the people and culture that exists at North. The demographic is very young, which makes for a really fun, exciting atmosphere. Everyone is willing to put their hand up to help out and that builds a real sense of comradery and community spirit. We now have kids as young as 14 helping out and I think that’s a testament to our club. The community that exists at Norths is best summed up by my 5-year-old son having no idea who his relatives are because he thinks everyone at the club is his uncle or aunty which is very cute.
You wear many hats? What element do you enjoy the most?
I think seeing the joy the sport can bring others is what I love most. The other week was our first time back in the Premier league for 9 years, and we were able to get a win on our first night. To see the excitement on everyone’s faces makes it all worth it.
The same can be said for our All-Abilities program which runs on a Wednesday night and has quickly become everyone’s favourite night. The program has been running for 5 years now which is a testament to the hard work that’s gone into the program and the joy it brings everyone.
What is your favourite memory or moment in the game?
Seeing the growth of the All-Abilities program going which started out with a few participants to now hosting games against other teams. At state cup a few years ago, we were able to organise an All-Abilities game to be played. The entire club was able to watch the athletes compete and it bought a tear to everyone’s eye. It’s been amazing to see these athletes to transition from mostly individual sporting environments to playing in a team sport which they can share with others.
Another memory that stands out was winning Vawdon Cup last year in the mixed division alongside my fiancé and little brother. It was really special to play alongside them and have the success that we did. We’ve now roped in my younger sister to come across and play at Norths – it’s a big family environment now.
What have been the biggest advancements in the sport in your opinion?
I think it’s been the opportunities that are available for everyone. There seems to be more people playing, with engagement across the sport at an all-time high, and I think that’s due to the opportunities the sport offers. I know at Norths we started off desperate for people to play and now we have such strong numbers that we need to offer more programs for our ever-growing membership base!
Congratulations Jordan and thanks again for your commitment and dedication towards our sport.
Jordan is now eligible for the overall TFA Volunteer of the Year award. To recognise volunteers from your community please click here.
