Life Membership Conferred 2016
Poppy has been a driving force at Fawkner Park since 1995, beginning her softball journey as a member of the RMIT Rhinos club. Her dedication to the Rhinos spanned over a decade until the club became defunct in 2006. Rather than let this setback diminish her passion for the sport, Poppy channelled her energy into creating new opportunities for players.
In 2007, Poppy was instrumental in establishing the Red Devils club, ensuring that former Rhinos players and new participants would continue to have a competitive home at Fawkner Park. Since the club's inception, she has served in various committee roles while also contributing on the diamond as both coach and assistant coach. Her vision extended beyond traditional softball when, in 2010, she played a key role in founding the Red Devils team in the Corporate Slowpitch League, broadening the club's reach and appeal.
Poppy's service to Melbourne Softball Association spans over two decades across multiple executive roles. She served as Treasurer from 1999 to 2002, before transitioning to Director of Finance from 2002 to 2003. Her administrative expertise was further utilised when she took on the Secretary role from 2005 to 2007 and again from 2012 to 2013. From 2013 to 2015, she served as Director of Representative Teams, overseeing the association's elite competition programs. Since 2015, she has continued her valuable contribution as a committee member.
Beyond formal committee duties, Poppy has been a hands-on contributor to events and activities hosted or supported by Melbourne Softball Association. Her particular passion for building awareness within the indigenous community has made lasting impacts, demonstrating her commitment to making softball accessible to all community members. She has also represented the association at various softball forums, local government meetings, and broader community events, serving as an effective ambassador for the sport.
Poppy's outstanding service has been recognised on multiple occasions. In 2001, she was among fifty-seven Melbourne Softball Association members who received the Year of the Volunteer award, specifically recognised for her commitment as an administrator for the RMIT Rhinos. Her continued dedication was formally acknowledged in 2003 when she received the MSA Service Award for her service to softball at Fawkner Park.
Melbourne Softball Association is honoured to have Poppy Bouhalis as a valued member of the community. Her unwavering commitment and substantial contributions to softball at Fawkner Park have enriched the association and its members for nearly three decades, exemplifying the spirit of voluntary service that makes community sport thrive.