Chris Hatzoglou might have been recognised for his role at the Sunshine Heights Cricket Club, but the man himself says the recognition is for the whole club.
Hatzoglou and his wider family have been drivers of the club for a number of years, with the club growing from 50 people to more than 200 from more than 30 different cultures.
The work of Hatzoglou was recently recognised as he was named the winner of the 2021 multicultural award of excellence for sport.
“The award is really recognition of the club,” he said.
“It’s pretty honouring to have my name out there, but it’s more about the club being recognised than me as an individual.
“So many individuals over the years have made the club what it is today. They’re really created an environment.”
Hatzoglou was nominated by the club for the award in recognition of his work. He started there as a player when he was 12 and has spent more than 30 years volunteering.
He had a nine-year stint as president. His brother Nick Hatzoglou now has that role.
Hatzoglou said the focus on making the club a multicultural one was something they have aimed to achieve for a number of years.
“We are a real multicultural club,” he said.
“Our parents were migrants … We understand it.
“People need a sense of belonging and that work never finishes.
“There are so many different cultures, it reflects Brimbank.”
Hatzoglou said the other thing that really thrills him, is the club has shown that you can have a real community focus, while helping others achieve their goals.
Former test player Colin Miller came through the juniors, while Hatzoglou’s nephew Peter Hatzoglou is currently playing in the Big Bash with the Perth Scorchers.
“You can have community focus and you don’t have to compromise the opportunities for people who really want to develop their cricket.”
