When you think of Port Douglas’ junior AFL scene it’s fair to say the ongoing work of a passionate and hard working local volunteer immediately comes to mind.

Whether it’s attending numerous meetings, running coaching sessions or servicing stakeholder enquiries, the junior footy official is the ultimate definition of a community sports club volunteer.

But if you ask Craig Mitchell, the endless running around and time it takes to ensure the smooth operation of a junior sporting club, he says it is just all part of the job.

A job in fact, that over time has seen him grow junior participation levels, create a girls youth competition and achieve many other positives.

“Ultimately, since becoming involved as a volunteer, junior coach and now president I’ve just loved seeing the kids grow and develop,” Mr Mitchell explained.

“I have a love of AFL and seeing kids improve, when I took on the president role I had three key goals; to ensure a fun atmosphere, provide an inclusive environment and have kids return.

“I think over time I’ve achieved those goals.”

Self-development evolution

The long serving junior boss believes being involved at the club has helped his life in many surprising ways.

“When I first became president I wasn’t confident at asking people for help, so I’ve definitely improved in that area,” he said.

“I’m also a much better public speaker now then a few years ago.

“It’s been a real self-development evolution for me. Prior to becoming involved I was generally stale and flat as a person, so being a volunteer has helped me so much, both professionally and personally.”

However, all good things must end and come September the footy tragic will complete his four year tenure in the position.

“I always said I’ll give the role three years, but with COVID happening, I felt I needed to go another year,” he said.

“So at the moment I’m currently working on some succession planning which will help the incoming person have a real smooth entry into the position.

“By that I mean the regular duties that need to be done in the role and some clear future strategies that club needs to implement to keep being successful.”

But until then the passionate footy fan is pumped for another big year.

“I’ve been happy with the numbers we’ve had across the junior grades at our various training and Auskick sessions over the past month,” he said.

“Everything points towards another excellent year.”

Mitchell’s honour roll

2016 - Coached son’s Auskick and under-8s outfit. Became Auskick co-ordinator. Took on coaching roles from under-8s to 12s.

2017 - joined Crocs junior footy committee.

2018 - Became Crocs junior footy vice president.

2019 - Became President. Also worked very hard to establish and coach an under-15s girls’ team (One of his favourite achievements).

2019 - Club Administrator of the year – AFL Cairns

2021 - Claimed the volunteer of the year award at the Douglas Australia Day awards ceremony