Hayri Cihan - nominated by Matamata Swifts AFC.

"Hayri is one of life's givers. His generosity knows no bounds and that is never more evident than through his contribution to our club. He plays, coaches, administrates and sponsors football in Matamata.

"In recent seasons his involvement in coaching his son's junior team has awakened a passion in developing young footballers. He treats all the players as if they're family. He has continued training a group of 8th and 9th grade players through what is normally considered the off-season - this training group is growing week on week. 

"In 2020 through his hospitality business, Fez Kebab, Hayri sponsored training shirts for all our club's 8th to 14th grade junior players. This was a significant investment that helped our club provide extra value to our young players in what has been a challenging year.

"Hayri can still be seen on the field playing for our senior teams. He even sat on the bench and gave our WaiBOP Premiership team some minutes when needed. 

"Fez Kebab is almost like a second home to most of our senior players. This is only right, given Hayri and Fez's contribution towards the after match functions of both our men's and women's teams.

"At the end of the 2020 season Hayri was named Matamata Swifts' Club Person of the Year. It was one of the easiest awards to make."

Hayri receives a $75 meal voucher from The Keg Room.

Find out more about our region's Unsung Heroes HERE.