CANOWINDRA resident and Cabonne Shire councillor Andrew Pull has spent more than three decades giving back to rugby league, but when he was named a recipient of the 2026 NSWRL Community Award, he said it was the last thing he expected.
“I’ve actually been the one nominating people over the years,” Pull said.
“I had no idea. I was driving to Wellington when I got a message saying congratulations, so I had to pull over and work out what it was for.”
The award recognises volunteers who make an outstanding contribution to rugby league, and Pull’s football ‘resume’ stretches across almost every aspect of the game.
He currently coaches the Canowindra Tigers League side, and helps with game-day operations, but over the years he has also been a club president, committee member, first-grade coach, junior coach, women’s coach, representative coach, trainer and player.
He has also served Woodbridge, the Western Rams and the Polska Rugby League Australia Heritage Board.
His coaching journey began in 1992 with an under-sevens side in Robertson before he moved to Canowindra in 1999.
While his love of rugby league started on the field, Pull said it was the community surrounding the game that has kept him involved.
“There’s so much more that happens than the football on the field,” he said.
“It’s the community side of it, catching up with friends and bringing people together. When you’re younger, you’re competing. As you get older, it’s more about reuniting.”
Pull said volunteering was his way of repaying those who had supported him throughout his own playing days.
“When I played, there were always committee members and volunteers doing all the work so I could just worry about playing,” he said.
“Now I’m older, I think young players should have that same opportunity.
“They shouldn’t have to worry about all the jobs that go into running a footy club. This is my chance to give back.”
Despite receiving the award, Pull said he believes community sport relies on many volunteers who often go unnoticed.
“A small amount of criticism can really knock volunteers around,” he said.
“But there are so many more positive stories to come out of community sport than there are negative ones.
“Stick to your guns and keep doing what you can to improve your community.”
Pull encouraged retired players and newcomers alike to consider volunteering.
“There are jobs for everyone,” he said.
“Whether it’s coaching, first aid, being a trainer, marking the field, cleaning the sheds or even picking up rubbish after the game, someone did those jobs for me when I played, so now it’s my turn.”
While premierships were an important part of the game, Pull said one of the greatest rewards he got from the sport went beyond capturing trophies.
“The highlight for me isn’t winning competitions,” he said.
“It’s catching up with people. Yesterday we played Manildra. The sun was out, the sky was blue, the weather was good and it was just a great day.”
As part of the award, Pull will receive a NSW Blues supporter pack, a $300 contribution towards a club function, and an invitation to attend the Brad Fittler Medal later this year.