Joan Mahony

Life Membership awarded in 1983.

Joan was the very deserving recipient of the first Life Membership awarded by DWAC in 1983. From 1974 to 1981 Joan led the club through some pivotal years which included the

development of the George Street track, Interclub at Doncaster and competing with the Men.

Ann Fraser, an early DWAC coach, said of Joan in the 1976/77 Annual Report:

“The Doncaster Women’s Club have been fortunate that they have a leader like you.”

Joan’s love of the sport, desire to promote athletics and develop young women in the local area were obvious. Her President’s Reports each year always showed her enthusiasm and

comments such as: “Let us do our part to give them the opportunity to continue with their chosen sport, by our whole-hearted support” (1975/76 Report) demonstrate her dedication to

the cause. 

Joan’s last season as President was 1980/81, but she continued as a delegate after that date. In recognition of Joan’s outstanding achievements at the Club, The Joan Mahony

Perpetual Trophy was first awarded at the end of the 1980/81 season to Athlete of the Year (now known as the Joan Mahony Female Athlete of the Year).