Mark Pittman
President 2024 - Current
“I believe that Lindfield Football Club has a responsibility to offer a fulfilling football experience for all, regardless of skill level or motivation. My passion for inclusive and community-focused football drives our ongoing efforts to enhance the Club’s offerings and support its members.”
Sarah Valentine
President 2021-2024
Sarah accepting the NSFA Pathways award 2023 from State MP, Matt Cross
Sarah Valentine, a dedicated leader who has made a significant impact at Lindfield Football Club and NSFA for 15 years. As President, MiniRoos Director, Age Coordinator and Manager for multiple teams, Sarah’s leadership has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant football community. Her journey began in 2008 as a player, and she quickly embraced her role as a devoted mother to three enthusiastic young footballers, showcasing her deep commitment to the sport and its growth within our association.
Throughout her time at Lindfield, Sarah has worn many hats, always demonstrating a cheerful spirit and unwavering dedication. Her passion for promoting girls' football has been particularly noteworthy, as she has worked tirelessly to enhance opportunities for female athletes in our community. As a representative on the NSFA Board (2018-2021) and Chair of the Girls and Women's Football Committee, she played a pivotal role in launching the Diamond League, significantly advancing the development of women's football in our region.
“ My heart lies with Lindfield and I firmly believe football can have such a positive impact for every player.
It was a privilege to be part of such a fantastic management committee, LFC Volunteers do everything possible give members the best experience possible!”
Clive Solari
President 2015 - 2021
“I had the privilege of working alongside an army of these dedicated volunteers, helping build a culture of doing something meaningful together. That camaraderie is something I value deeply.”
Reflecting on my five years as President of Lindfield Football Club, I feel deeply honoured to have held the role. One of the things I loved most was seeing so many different pathways in the club: coaching, junior development, women’s football, masters, social teams—making sure Lindfield FC was a club for all levels. Being in the leadership role meant I could champion inclusive policies that encouraged broader participation, and ensure the club served more than just a select few. A football club like Lindfield FC thrives because of the many volunteers that give their time—committee members, coaches, age-coordinators and parents. As President, I had the privilege of working alongside an army of these dedicated volunteers, helping build a culture of doing something meaningful together. That camaraderie is something I value deeply. Finally, it’s a privilege to have been trusted with the responsibility of the presidency. I volunteered because others believed I would act in the club’s best interests, and having that trust, and striving to live up to it, was humbling. Thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the friendships. - Clive Solari
Vale - Gil Merlo
President - 2015
Like so many admirable volunteers in sport in Australia, Gilbert unselfishly gave up so much of his own family time so others could enjoy their sport.
Gil was a strong advocate for female football in Northern Suburbs Football Association and was assistant coach of the Lindfield FC Grade 14As in 2013, who were the first female team from NSFA to win a Champion of Champions title which was to be one of his finest football achievements.
I often talk fondly about how Lindfield FC grew from over 700 registered players to 2,000 players over the 7 years that I proudly served on the Committee. A huge factor in this was Gilbert’s vision and leadership. When you analysed our growth this was mostly due to the growth in Women’s Football. Having three girls himself Gilbert was keen to see them play football rather than any other sport.
He set about with a plan that would bring money into the club through sponsorship that was invested in player development and encouraging young girls to join. Word soon spread about the quality of coaching and the friendliness of our club with the result that teams of girls playing school football joined in droves.
- Former Lindfield FC committee member Umberto Righetti speaking about the legacy his friend Gil would leave to football.