Chittleborough Announced as Receipient of 2022 Presidents Award

Up and coming referee Sam Chittleborough has been announced as the 2022 recipient of the TTRA's President's Award, the first time the award has been bestowed since 2012.

The award was presented to Chittleborough by current TTRA President Kerrod Hall at the association's annual awards dinner, and was the second award received by Chittleborogh on the night having also picked up the Glen Wilson Award for Most Improved Referee.

In introducing the award, Hall acknowledged its history and importance, including the duty to former recipients to ensure it remained a valued award within the organisation.

"The previous recipients of the award have all been extremely valueable and well-respected members of our organisation, and that was an important factor for me to consider."

Hall spoke highly of the volunteers on the TTRA's management committee, reinforcing his gratitude for the contribution to the association that each member has made.

"As always, Denise, Chris, and Lachlan have been invaluable, and even though it goes without saying, the outcomes we have achieved every Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday simply wouldn't be possible without their dedication and hard work."

"Our committee is full of hard workers and they each contribute their heart and soul towards making sure our organisation and more importantly our members are supported on and off the field."

"Any one of them could have been worthy recipients of the award this year, because the roles they fill in our organisation are truly invaluable."

While several members were considered for the award, Hall found himself coming back to a single question that needed to be answered.

"For me, it was one question - who did more? It wasn't a question to just compare each member and their level of contribution, it was about considering who stood out by going above and beyond, who gave back to our association despite having no obligation to do so, who did more than their role asked of them."

"Our committee puts in the time and effort not just because we're passionate, but also because its part of our roles within the organisation. We're volunteers, but when we put our hands up to hold office we knew we were also putting our hands up to do the work that comes with it."

Ultimately, Hall settled on this year's recipient based on their contribution to the association despite holding no formal role.

Hall noted that it was a simple text message that he received in the week leading up to this year's Award Dinner that solidified his decision.

"It (the decision) was reaffirmed by a text message this week which read 'What time are you getting there on Friday? What can I do to help?'. That message was from this year's receipient, Sam Chittleborough."

In further explaining his decision, Hall spoke highly of Chittleboroughs attitude and contribution.

"Sam has shown a maturity over the last 12 months that is uncommon in people his age."

"He holds no role on our committee, doesn't ask for or receive any payment for the work he has done, but he continually asks what he can do to help. He goes beyond, he does more, and that is something I am sincerely thankful for."

The TTRA congratulates Sam on being named the recipient of the 2022 President's Award.