Prestigious award for Jon
Jon Pillemer has been awarded the coveted Charles Valentine Medal by Football NSW, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the development of the sport in the region.
Pillemer’s remarkable journey through the world of soccer has not only made him a standout player but also an instrumental figure in shaping the game.
The Charles Valentine Medal is Football NSW’s most prestigious accolade, presented annually to an individual who has left an indelible mark on the sport in the state. Pillemer, a true legend of the game, has now etched his name in the annals of football history by becoming the first person ever to win both the Player of the Year award twice, in 1994 and 1995, and the Charles Valentine Medal.
Jon Pillemer shows his award
Pillemer’s passion for soccer was ignited during his childhood when he, alongside his brothers Michael and Russel, served as mascots for their beloved Rangers football team in the Australian National League. This early connection with the sport laid the foundation for their impressive soccer careers.
As a teenager, the Pillemer brothers made waves by playing together in the Rangers under-19 team. At just 16, Jon, with Russel at 17 and Michael at 19, showcased their incredible talent on the field. Michael’s exceptional skills even led him to play for the Rangers’ first team while still a youth player in South Africa.
Jon’s soccer journey took him across borders as he played for the Rangers in South Africa and later featured in England’s combination league while representing Charlton Athletic. However, it was in his home state of NSW where he truly shone, earning the title of NSW Player of the Year twice, in 1994 and 1995.
Pillemer’s commitment to the sport extended beyond his playing days. He dedicated two decades of his life to the Hakoah football board, serving as both president and chairman from 2013 to 2021. His influence on the administrative side of the game was as profound as his prowess on the field.
Notably, Jon Pillemer holds the distinction of being the oldest player to compete in Division 2 in Australia at the age of 46, showcasing his enduring love and dedication to the game.
Pillemer’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, as he was recently inducted into the Maccabi NSW Hall of Fame. In 2022, he was chosen as the captain and flag bearer of the Australian Maccabiah team, leading a contingent of 650 athletes. His remarkable Maccabiah journey spans nine consecutive games, starting in 1989, solidifying his status as a true Maccabiah legend.
In addition to his individual accomplishments, all three Pillemer brothers represented their state team in South Africa – Southern Transvaal. Michael and Russel also made their mark in the first division in NSW. The trio played together for the Australian Maccabiah team in four memorable tournaments and were also selected for the Australian
team, representing their country at the World University Games in Sheffield, England.
Jon Pillemer attributes his lifelong passion for soccer to his father, Doug, who faithfully drove him and his brothers to watch their beloved Rangers team every week. He also acknowledges his unwavering support from his mother, Yvette, who never missed a game, making her his biggest supporter throughout the years.
Jon Pillemer’s remarkable journey in football is not only a testament to his outstanding skills but also to his enduring commitment to the sport. His legacy as a player, leader, and contributor to the development of soccer in New South Wales is now forever enshrined with the prestigious Charles Valentine Medal.
