A passion for community-level sport has motivated private investigator Claire O'Donnell to nominate for a position on the WA Football Commission board, bringing over a decade of hands-on club experience to the table.
From the Canteen to the Boardroom
O'Donnell's extensive football journey began at the Whitford Junior Football Club, where her involvement evolved from team mum to holding nearly every administrative role, including canteen coordinator, registrar, secretary, and treasurer.
Her husband, Phil, later became club president, culminating in a family contribution of roughly 14 to 15 years that helped grow Whitfords into the largest junior football club in Western Australia.
Her connection to the sport deepened through her three children—Tom, Sam, and Mia—with her husband still playing at Masters level for the Northern Warriors.
A Hands-On Approach to WAFL Challenges
O'Donnell's administrative skills were further honed during a challenging period for the West Perth Football Club, where she served as a director.
"We put our heads together and we opened up bars and food outlets and did everything we could to roll up the sleeves and raise money for West Perth," she recalled, describing the club's time in administration.
Driven to increase engagement, she took on the role of Director of Junior Engagement, focusing on a critical question: why weren't the 5000+ families in the West Perth district attending WAFL games regularly?
She created partnerships between the eight junior clubs in the district, an initiative that successfully drew more people through the gates and helped young players see local WAFL stars as attainable heroes.
A Unique Perspective for WA Football's Future
O'Donnell, who was named Football Volunteer of the Year for the West Perth District in 2019, believes her background offers a rare and valuable viewpoint.
"I think I'd bring to the table really quite a unique perspective," she said. "I'm hopeful that now I'm at that stage where I can go one step higher and be involved in the governance of footy."
She is also a strong advocate for women's football, inspired by her daughter Mia, who was a pioneer in the women's game. O'Donnell has also been involved with the Perth Football League, rounding out her comprehensive understanding of the sport's ecosystem.
A Full Slate of Female Candidates
O'Donnell is one of four women vying for two vacant positions on the board, ensuring gender equity is maintained. The other candidates are:
- Martina Crowley, a PricewaterhouseCoopers partner and current director seeking a second term.
- Danielle Cattalini, the Acting Director of Corporate Services at the City of South Perth.
- Melanie Fisher, BHP's Global Head of Health.
Current director Amber Banfield will not stand for a third term due to a demanding work schedule.
A secret ballot will follow a postal vote, with the successful candidates announced at a WA Football forum on December 4. Board members serve three-year terms and are limited to three terms unless an ordinary resolution decides otherwise.
