TWO milestones in the space of 48 hours have put a spring in the step of hard-working Nelson Bay Football Club official Amber Grosser.
After being named the Northern NSW Football Local Champion Coach of the Year at a recent Gala Dinner, the dedicated leader was elected Nelson Bay’s volunteer Club President for 2026 just two days later.
A chuffed Amber received her prestigious Local Champion accolade during the Emily van Egmond-Graham Jennings Awards Night at the Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre.
The award is deserved recognition for the tireless Grosser, who kicked her first soccer ball just over ten years ago with the Nelson Bay club after moving to Port Stephens from her home town of Gunnedah.
She capped a busy 2025 season by guiding the Nelson Bay FC Women’s Over 30s B team to the Newcastle Football Interdistrict finals as captain-coach and fostered the promising young talent in the Girls Under 12/2 and Under 9 squads.
Amber, who lives in Fingal Bay, was also the recipient of the club’s Elaine Donnelly Award for demonstrating a willingness to put the team and her teammates first and always giving her best.
Outgoing club president Todd Giles – who is relocating to Canberra with his young family – praised his successor for her dedication, leadership and passion for developing and supporting players throughout the junior and senior ranks.
“We are all so proud of Amber’s efforts and her club spirit shines through in everything she does,” quipped the long serving official, who will remain the club’s historian.
“Her commitment to creating a positive, fun and hard working environment for her teams has not only built strong players — but strong people.
This award recognises the countless hours she gives to our club and community and we are so fortunate to have her on board,” he added.
Amber becomes only the second female president in the club’s proud 50-year history, following in the steps of club stalwart Vicki McLeer.
She originally joined the club “to make friends” but has since developed into a skilful winger, inspiring coach and top administrator and is regarded as an ideal role model on the local sporting scene.
Through playing and volunteering she gained her C-Class coaching licence, participated in Northern NSW Football Women in Leadership programs and has made lifelong friendships.
One of her proudest moments was receiving the Club Person of the Year Award back in 2021.
Amber is passionate about the growth of Nelson Bay FC – not just in numbers, but in community, culture and creating opportunities for all.
The respected mentor is also dedicated to increasing female participation at the club.
During the soccer season you’ll find the committed Grosser coaching, helping out on game days, working in the canteen, toiling away on the training paddock or playing Monday nights.
Joining Amber on a new Nelson Bay FC volunteer executive committee in 2026 are vice president Ryan Palmer, secretary Danielle Hobbs, treasurer Shaun Shelley and Coaching Director Dave Harasti.
By Chris KARAS
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