A New Leader Making a Lasting Impact: Matt Mathe Honoured as Champion of the Month

The West Coast Poly Champion of the Month continues to recognise the volunteers who are making a lasting impact on country football, and for July, Country Football WA is proud to recognise Matt Mathe from the Hedland Junior Football Association.

While 2026 marks Matt’s first year as President, his influence has been immediate. From before the season even began, Matt set out to reshape the culture of the Hedland Reds, refreshing the club’s vision, mission, values, leadership structure, branding, communication, and engagement with members, neighbouring clubs, and umpires.

His leadership has created a welcoming and positive environment that extends far beyond his own club.

One of Matt’s standout initiatives has been redefining what it means to host visiting teams. Every week, opposition clubs receive a personalised welcome email ahead of their trip to Hedland. Upon arrival, they’re greeted with their club logo proudly displayed on the changeroom doors, along with ice, water, shade, and everything needed to ensure a great day of football.

And then there are the cupcakes.

Freshly baked cupcakes, decorated with the visiting club’s logo, have become a signature of Matt’s hospitality—an unexpected gesture that has left a lasting impression on clubs from across the region.

It’s a simple act that perfectly reflects Matt’s belief that country football is built on respect, connection, and community.

His commitment to the game was perhaps best demonstrated when a neighbouring club found themselves short on players. Rather than focusing solely on his own team’s success, Matt arranged for several Hedland Reds Under 7, 8 and 9 players to play for the Karratha Kats. Those players helped the Kats record their first win of the season—a moment that highlighted Matt’s belief that participation and player experience are far more important than the result on the scoreboard.

Throughout the season, Matt has remained a calm, positive and solutions-focused leader. Even when faced with complex challenges, he continues to lead with integrity while staying true to the values of fun, participation, development and sustainability.

His collaborative approach and genuine care for everyone involved in junior football have strengthened relationships across the Pilbara and created an environment where young players, volunteers and families can thrive.

Matt’s passion, innovation and community-first mindset embody everything the West Coast Poly Champion of the Month program celebrates.

Congratulations, Matt, on being named the West Coast Poly Champion of the Month for July. Thank you for the incredible difference you’re making to junior football in the Pilbara and country football across Western Australia.