Sharks and NSW Blues five eighth James Maloney plays a pivotal role in helping his teams to succeed on the field, but now he is also being recognised for an equally important role off the field, that is being a good father.
The father of three, Kade (6), Layla (4) and Ethan (1), Maloney is among 10 elite Australian athletes vying for the Sports Dad of the Year Award to be announced for Father's Day on Sunday, September 4.
Being a kid at heart, Maloney loves to spend time with his children whether it is in and around the house or down at the local park.
“Being a big kid I love playing at the park with them and the dog, hide and seek around the house and watching them do sport, dancing or swimming lessons,” Maloney said.
The award showcases the contribution Australia's sporting elite make to their families both on and off the field.
Now in its eighth year, the Philips Sports Dad of the Year will highlight 10 elite athletes across a broad range of sports, giving insights into how they juggle fatherhood with their sporting commitments. Last year's winner was Cowboys superstar Johnathan Thurston.
This year's nominated Sports Dads are profiled on sportsdads.com.au which will include questions and answers from the players about their families, as well as comments from the athletes' partners and children as well as family photos.
All voters have the opportunity to win special prizes for their own father this Father's Day, with the winning Philips Sports Dad of the Year receiving $5,000 to donate to their charity of choice.
Leading the charge this year are NRL and Origin stars Corey Parker and James Maloney, AFL are represented by Sydney Swans co-captain Jarrad McVeigh, retiring Fremantle star Matthew Pavlich and also Brent Harvey who recently notched up the most games in AFL history, other athletes include four-time Olympian Jamie Dwyer, one of the most feared batsman in the world David Warner, Tour de France stage winner Simon Gerrans, Supercar star Garth Tander and the man who’s delivered so much for Australia, socceroo superstar Tim Cahill.
Vote now for James at www.sportsdads.com.au
Voting closes on Tuesday, August 30, and the Philips Sports Dad of the Year winner will be announced on Father's Day, Sunday, September 4.
