Variety – the Children’s Charity is proud to announce the finalists for the 2025 Tom Hafey Heart of Football Award, to be presented at the Variety Grand Final Lunch on Wednesday 24 September at Crown Palladium.
Named in honour of AFL legend and Variety Life Member Tom Hafey, the award celebrates a current AFL or AFLW player who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to helping children through selfless actions and community leadership over the past 12 months.
Geelong superstar Jeremy Cameron is one of four finalists for the award in 2025, recognised for his extraordinary impact in the community.
Cameron has been involved in numerous programs throughout the year, including the Cats Wishes Program which creates experiences for ill children, grassroots football at the Modewarre Football Netball Club, community initiatives like the Good Friday Appeal Home Auction and so much more.
This year’s finalists have inspired Variety and their communities through advocacy, hands-on involvement, and a deep dedication to creating opportunities for young people.
The winner will be announced live at the Variety Grand Final Lunch, with the award presented by Maureen Hafey OAM.
2025 Finalists
Jeremy Cameron – AFL
• Champion of the Cats Wishes Program, creating unforgettable experiences for seriously ill children.
• Honoured Jacob’s legacy with a heartfelt on-field tribute on Mother’s Day.
• Active in grassroots football, mentoring juniors and volunteering with Modewarre FNC.
• Engaged in community initiatives like Dulux Colour Your Club and the Good Friday Appeal Home Auction.
• Known for his genuine connection with fans and consistent community presence.
• His work has touched lives from hospital wards to local footy clubs, bringing joy and connection to children and families across the Geelong region.
Amelie Borg – AFLW
• Delivered the Empowered program to over 1,000 young women, promoting confidence and gender equality.
• Championed regional access, ensuring inclusion for communities like Mount Gambier.
• Key contributor to the Empowering Women Leadership event and speaker on sport as a driver for social change.
• Mentored teammates to expand the program’s reach through peer-led delivery.
• Advocates for equity, education, and community impact using her platform.
• Her work has reached young women across South Australia, creating lasting change in both metropolitan and regional communities.
Callan Ward – AFL
• Led the GIANTS Foundation’s mental health and children’s support strategy.
• Instrumental in the Mounties Care Cottage campaign, helping raise $3.3M and unlock $33M in funding for Western Sydney’s first children’s hospice.
• Fronted national media, pitched to donors, and spoke at NSW Parliament to secure bipartisan support.
• Mobilised teammates and community through events like Orange Tsunami City2Surf.
• Authentic advocate for vulnerable families and lasting change. As at 10/09/25
• His leadership has helped secure a legacy project that will support thousands of families across Western Sydney for generations.
Tom Liberatore – AFL
• Weekly volunteer mentor at the Western Bulldogs Community Foundation’s Social and Study Club.
• Advisor to the Foundation’s Youth Early Intervention & Prevention Community of Practice.
• Inspires teammates to engage in community work, leading by example.
• Catalyst for cultural change, encouraging younger players to join WBCF programs.
• Humble and consistent presence, building trust and modelling care without seeking recognition.
• His influence has shaped a new generation of community-minded players and improved educational outcomes for young people in Melbourne’s west.
