One of three nominees for this year’s award, Argent was recognised at Friday night’s Townsville Junior Touch Football grand finals due to his longstanding commitment to his beloved Redskins club and his efforts to support the growth of touch football across Townsville.
Former Chair of Townsville Junior Touch Football, Kerrod Hall, who oversaw the association’s junior competitions during much of Argent’s involvement, spoke highly of Argent’s commitment and dedication to the development of association’s junior competitions.
“Dave wasn’t just instrumental in developing Redskins into a powerhouse club, he has always been driven to make sure that this city’s future touch footy stars are given a pathway to grow.”
“He isn’t just a behind-the-scenes volunteer either, because he is always there to lend a hand on game-day, especially with coaching an extra side or refereeing a game or two.”
“His support is invaluable, and he is a more than worthy recipient of this year’s award.”
Argent’s roles vary over his 25-year history with the sport of Touch Football in Townsville, holding many committee positions, all in a voluntary capacity.
After relocating to Townsville in 1998, Argent found himself volunteering to join the management committee of Redskins Touch Club Inc., eventually taking the reigns as President between 2000 and 2002 and returning for a further five-year stint from 2012 to 2019.
Arguably one of his greatest achievements, Argent was instrumental in the club’s move from its old stomping ground adjacent to the Castle Hill PCYC, to its current home at Greenwood Park.
The move enabled the club to expand, which it did so rapidly under his second tenure at the helm, doubling its numbers from 26 teams in the 2012 Townsville Junior Touch Football season, to 50 teams in 2019.
It was this hard work and dedication that led to Argent first being nominated for TJT’s Volunteer of the Year award in 2016, followed by the bestowment of Life Membership from Redskins Touch Club Inc. in 2019.
Current club President, David Todd, holds Argent’s willingness to provide support in high regard, and cites his high standards as one of the reasons for his many achievements.
“Dave is always willing to make his services available to touch in whatever capacity he can, and he always sets and achieves a very high standard in whatever role he takes.”
Todd remarks that while Argent puts his team and players first, he has always looked at the bigger picture.
"He always makes himself available to the game, and when it comes to developing players, our community, and our sport he is one of the first to put his hand up to help."
"He is looked upon as a giver to our sport who expects little in return. He's an ambassador to the sport and a mentor to his players, referees and coaches alike."
Serving as example of his dedication to the sport, Argent was also recognised this year by the Townsville Touch Referees Association Inc. with a long service award for his 20 years as a referee in Townsville, a role which he undertakes throughout both senior and junior touch football seasons alongside his commitments as a coach.