The Southern Football Netball League (SFNL) Board advises that David Cannizzo has tendered his resignation as Chief Executive Officer of the League.
After five and a half years in the SFNL’s top job, David has accepted the position of Chief Executive Officer at the Sandringham Football Club (Victorian Football League).
SFNL Vice Chairman Garry Cranny spoke glowingly of David’s contribution to the League.
“Whilst it is disappointing to be losing David, we understand and respect his decision to transition to professional football. The opportunity for him to head-up such a leading VFL club is testimony to his professional development and a compliment to the SFNL,” Cranny said.
“David has been a tireless leader, with a positive outlook towards every initiative implemented during his five and a half years as CEO of the SFNL. He has led the SFNL through a period of significant cultural and behavioural change, reinforcing the League as a safe, fair and inclusive football environment.
“David’s tenure has seen the League achieve significant growth in key on and off field areas. Important highlights include a 50% increase in annual turnover, the growth of netball from seven to 81 teams, the introduction of seven new Member Clubs and the launch of a 10-team senior women’s football competition.
“On behalf of the SFNL Board, the Administration and all Member Clubs, we convey our thanks to David for the dedication and energy he applied to our CEO role and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”
Ahead of embarking on his new challenge, David reflected on some of the highlights over his SFNL tenure.
“There are so many recent developments and initiatives about which the SFNL can be proud. Full credit goes to the Administration, supported by outstanding volunteer contributions across the League. Together, these are the driving forces that transform ideas into realities,” Cannizzo explained.
“From the launch of netball and growth to over 80 teams in six short years, the significant rebranding of the League, incorporating netball into the name, I’ve taken enormous satisfaction in seeing our Member Clubs become more inclusive and valued community assets. The successful launch of the senior women’s football competition this year is definitely the icing on the cake.
“After a considerable early focus on identifying methods to underpin club viability, it is satisfying to finish my tenure with the recently announced new divisional model for senior men’s football. Along with the SFNL Board, I’m confident this structure will assist the competitiveness of matches, the enjoyment of participants and the sustainability of clubs.
“Finally, thank you to all SFNL stakeholders that I have worked with in so many different areas since 2012, it is been an absolute blast and I will be forever grateful for the wonderful relationships that have been formed.”
David will finish at the SFNL on Friday 12 January 2018 and the League will begin advertising the Chief Executive Officer position shortly.
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David Cannizzo (centre) with MP Nick Staikos and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews.[/caption]
