Nambucca Roosters, it is no wonder Michael Ronan has been named Nambucca Shire Council’s Senior

Sportsperson for 2011.

Michael has been playing football for 24 years. He

completed his junior years with Nambucca Heads, but

eventually broke ranks and played for Macksville,

Bellingen and even Coffs Harbour. However, Michael

always managed to make his way back home to the

Roosters.

Since 2003 he has received a number of awards for

his sporting achievements; including highest point

scorer (three times for Nambucca, twice for Macksville,

once with Bellingen and once with Coffs Harbour), best back, best forward, most consistent player; the list goes on-and-on.

It is a credit to his talent and consistent effort.

Last year as first grade captain, he took out VB

Group 2 Player of the Year and NHRLFC Club Player’s

Player.

“Football is such a big part of my social life, which is

probably why I still play,” Michael said.

Michael’s Australia day award nomination came

from his family, who couldn’t be more proud of his

achievements.

“This award has come as such a big surprise, I

honestly didn’t expect it,” Michael said.

“I had a good year (of footy) last year, so I’d say that’s what brought it on; but it’s still such a shock.”

Michael will play for the Roosters again this year.

Despite the heart-shattering moment when the

premiership was ripped from them in the dying minutes of last year’s grand final against Sawtell, Michael remains positive for the 2012 title.