Red and white runs deep for Sydney Swans Melbourne cheer squad member Andrew Phillips.
A passionate Swans fan since the age of four, he is now an integral part of the Swans’ Melbourne cheer squad. His dedication often sees him working into the night with others at banner making sessions and arriving early on game days, contributing countless volunteer hours to the club he loves.
Andrew’s extraordinary commitment and tireless work behind the scenes has been recognised, with him being awarded the 2025 AFL Fans Association Fan of the Year. The award celebrates the extraordinary dedication and community spirit that fans bring to the game.
Across multiple nominations, Andrew was praised for creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. New members consistently described how he made them feel valued from their first day, ensuring supporters of all ages and experience felt part of the cheer squad family.
Andrew also manages logistics that most supporters never see, including:
- storing all equipment at his home
- transporting gear to and from stadiums
- coordinating banner carriers
- ensuring flags, crepe paper and tape are always stocked
- fundraising for cheer squad activities
Sydney Swans CEO Matthew Pavlich thanked Andrew for his contribution to the club.
“Andrew’s commitment to the Sydney Swans, paired with the cheer squad’s vibrant energy, ensures an outstanding experience for our Melbourne members,” Pavlich said. “On behalf of everyone at the club I would like to thank Andrew for everything he does – this award is testament to his hard work and passion.”
A very excited Andrew said, "I am completely humbled and speechless to receive this award and have to give a big shout-out to my sidekick over the last few years, Mitchell Round for all the support he has given me.”
Meanwhile the WA Crows were recognised as the Supporter Group of the Year, an award that was last year won by the Sydney Swans’ WA supporter group.
AFL Fans Association President Ron Issko said this year’s nominees represented the very best of football fandom.
“Every year we hear incredible stories of fans who go above and beyond, and 2025 has delivered some of the strongest nominations we’ve ever received,” Ron said.
“Andrew Phillips and the WA Crows Supporters Group are shining examples of what makes footy supporters so special – community, generosity and an unshakeable love of the game.”
