Penny plays football with the St Kilda Sharks and in 2006 was the inaugural coach of the St KIlda Sharks Youth Girls team. The 19-year-old shared the award with hockey star Jacob Moresi at last night's award ceremony at the MCG.
In their 11th year, the awards aim to recognise innovation and exceptional achievement across all areas of the sport and recreation sector in Victoria.
AFL Victoria Female Football Development Manager Chyloe Kurdas said it was fantastic for Penny to be recognised for her selfless contribution to the community.
We always acknowledge our champions and best and fairest winners, but this award recognises Penny's fine and ongoing contribution to girls and young women in the football community, which has very little to do with her on field achievements," Kurdas said.
It was an acknowledgement of the importance of female participation in our game and the initiatives that we've since implemented to ensure that girls like Penny can realistically choose football as their preferred sport."
As a result of a watershed VCAT hearing driven by then 15-year-old footballer Penny and Emily Stayner, 15, and Helen Taylor, 14, young women were given the right to make their own decision about their participation in football until the age of 14 - an increase from the age of 12.
"The award recognises that Penny's fight was worthwhile, because she and the other two girls represented thousands of girls across Australia who has aspirations of playing football," Kurdas said.
"The evidence is there in the amazing growth in participation following the court case and the new initiatives it created."
Kurdas said Penny was an inspiration to other young female footballers.
"I certainly hope that it helps other young women to recognise that they have something that they can contribute, and that their contribution is not only needed, but valued by the community," Kurdas said.
Penny with joint winner Jacob Moresi & the Sports Minister James Merlino
Penny with joint winner Jacob Moresi, AFL VIC CEO Peter Schwabb & Sports Minister James Merlino
Last Modified on 23/02/2009 20:34