Our very own Thomas Burgess is among the top 10 elite Australian athletes vying for the Sports Dad of the Year award, to be announced on Father's Day on Sunday, September 1.
Now in its 15th year, the award showcases the contribution Australia's sporting elite make to their families both on and off the field. Last year’s winner, Daly Cherry-Evans, matched his prize money to donate $10,000 to the Gotcha4Life Foundation.
The Sports Dad of the Year will highlight 10 elite athletes across a range of sports, giving insights into how they juggle fatherhood with their sporting commitments. Notably, current teammate, Damien Cook, has previously won this prestigious award, adding to the rich legacy of family-focused athletes within the club.
This year's nominated Sports Dads will be profiled on sportsdads.com.au which will include questions and answers from the players about their families.
All voters have the opportunity to win special prizes for their own father this Father's Day, with the winning Philips Celebrity Sports Dad of the Year receiving $5,000 to donate to their charity of choice.
VOTE HERE
As he prepares to play his final season. Thomas is focused on his next chapter with his growing family. Recently welcoming their third child, Alfie, with his wife, Tahlia, Thomas is filled with excitement for their upcoming move to the UK. “I’ll miss the Rabbitohs—they’ve been such a big part of our lives,” he shares
For Thomas, nothing compares to the joy and fulfilment of fatherhood. “Being a dad is incredible. I love watching my kids grow and explore the world,” he says. Tahlia, whom Thomas describes as the “heart of our family,” along with their two daughters Sophie (4) and Elodie (2), is eager to reconnect with their roots and embark on new adventures abroad. “Thomas is an amazing dad,” Tahlia adds. “His patience and love for our kids are truly special. He’s always there for them, no matter how tired he is from a game.” For Thomas, this transition is all about creating new memories and experiences with his loved ones, as they embrace this exciting journey together.
This year’s finalists also feature fellow NRL stars Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Reuben Cotter, Wallaby scrum-half Nic White, Supercar champion David Reynolds, five-time Paralympian Brenden Hall, NBA and Boomers icon Joe Ingles, Olympic gold medalist and Grand Slam winner Matt Ebden, along with AFL greats Patrick Dangerfield and Lachie Neale, both celebrated for their leadership and multiple accolades, including the prestigious Brownlow Medal.
Vote now for Thomas at sportsdads.com.au
Voting closes on Tuesday, August 27, and the Sports Dad of the Year winner will be announced on Father's Day.
