Football Queensland (FQ) is pleased to announce Barry McErlean of Arana United Futsal Club as the Volunteer of the Month for November.

As the winner for November 2019, McErlean wins a $250 travel voucher courtesy of Flight Centre, Football Queensland’s official travel and accommodation partner.

Arana United Futsal Club founder and President McErlean was nominated to the Academy of Awesome by Club Secretary Patrick McCormack, for the countless hours he dedicates and roles he undertakes at the club.

“He does everything, from coaching to organising things. There’s probably only a handful of people in South East Queensland that have done as much for futsal in as many different areas as Barry and I think he deserves recognition,” McCormack said.

McCormack praised McErlean’s attitude and work ethic, claiming the club wouldn’t be the same without him.

“He’s a really calm and considered individual. Sometimes running a club, people can become unhappy and things can get controversial, but I’ve never seen him get flustered or upset,” McCormack said.

“He’s the heart and soul of the club. When people think of Arana United Futsal Club they think of Barry – the association is that close.”

McErlean said he was honoured to be named the November Volunteer of the Month.

“Considering the huge number of passionate volunteers within the football and futsal community, it is a great honour to be recognised as the Football Queensland Volunteer of the Month,” McErlean said.

“I’m privileged to receive this recognition on behalf of all the unsung volunteer heroes out there who commit their time and energies for the love of the game. None of us set out, or expect, to receive accolades however it is really nice to be formally acknowledged.”

McErlean said his favourite thing about volunteering his time at the club is the people he has met and volunteered alongside over the years.

“Our club would be nothing without the people – the players, parents, supporters, referees and club officials,” McErlean said.

“I’ve made life-long friends through my involvement in our futsal club, as well as previous involvement as a coach and committee member at various football clubs. Our club has a real sense of belonging, it’s one big family.”

A former state team coach at the FFA National Futsal Championships, McErlean has dedicated years of service to both football and futsal in Queensland, but acknowledges that he could not have achieved what he has at Arana United Futsal Club alone.

“We rapidly grew and I’m so proud of what our club has achieved over the last decade,” McErlean said.

“I could never have done it without the loyalty and support of so many people, and together we have built a brand that is now widely known and respected.

“It’s been a long journey but I’m so proud of what we have achieved.”

Words: Darren Newell