Broome Pearlers win AFL Masters country club of the year award as it celebrates 10th birthday

The Broome Pearlers Sports Club has been awarded country club of the year at the AFL Masters awards, capping off the club’s 10th anniversary. Involved with the club since 2016, Broome Pearlers Sports Club president Christian Joder said the win came as a big surprise. “To be honest, it was a bit of a bit of a shock really because we were unaware that we had been nominated, but it was also a bit humbling having someone from the AFL Masters down in the metro area put us forward for the award,” he said. “They’ve acknowledged that, even though we don’t have a competition up here, we’ve managed to grow the club and get some good engagement. “And that’s what AFL Masters is about, engaging with people and making sure that they’ve got an opportunity to participate, it’s not about serious competition.” Established in 2012, the Broome Pearlers Sports Club has just celebrated its 10th birthday. Mr Joder said he was proud the Pearlers had been recognised for their hard work building the club to more than 50 members over the past 10 years. “From a club that was basically just two blokes and a football we’ve grown quite considerably over the last decade,” he said. “There’s certain people that make a club tick and you don’t do it without the support from past and present members and committee members and most importantly the sponsors. “We’re not a multi-million-dollar club and so without the support of the community and our sponsors, we wouldn’t be able to offer what we do, so we really appreciate that support. “We’re an inclusive club, so if anyone feels like coming down for a laugh and run, reach out to the Pearlers because we’re here.” The AFL Masters awards were announced on October 15 at Optus Stadium in Perth.