Working more than 50 hours a week to help run he and his wife’s business, you’d be forgiven for thinking Johnny Marchetti didn’t have much time for anything else.
However, that is certainly not the case, with the Canberran dedicating countless hours to volunteer with Lanyon United Football Club.
“You always find time for the things you love,” Johnny told Capital Football.
“I have a supportive wife who loves the game too, she’s probably more passionate than me when it comes to football.”
Johnny started volunteering with Lanyon United FC back in 2008 when the club was looking for a State League Men’s coach.
“I’ve always had a compassionate heart when it comes to football. From there to date, I now coach women’s football at Lanyon United FC.”
Johnny’s love for football started from an early age. Growing up in Canberra, he played from the time he was six years old, going on to compete in the Premier League and even representing Australia in Brazil for Futsal.
Now, at 44 years young, he plays in the Masters League, also using his years of experience to coach.
“My role now at Lanyon United FC is running both the State League Women’s teams,” he said.
“The women’s teams are growing. We are having much interest for a potential 3rd team next season.
“I coach, manage and train the State League 4s and train the State League 5s. The ladies are great. They are like sisters, always positive and encouraging to one another.
“A lot of quality time goes into managing, coaching and training both teams. They and the club appreciate what I do which makes my job easier and so rewarding.
“At Lanyon United FC I’m always creating memories, each game, each training session always pulls at the heart strings. These women have so much potential, they always give it their best shot with happy tears at times and always lots of laughter.”
The appreciation goes both ways, with the players grateful for his dedication to their development.
“John is an excellent and committed coach,” player Cassandra Newman said.
“He is very committed to his team, as well as the other women’s team, and the entire club.
“He consistently shows up to train the entire women’s squad and has made several sponsorships and donations towards the club to ensure they have adequate resources and equipment.
“John is a great person who shows up for everyone.”
A great person supported by a club, he loves.
“If I had to paint a picture of Lanyon United FC it would look like one big family. We are small club with a big heart.
“It’s not about quantity it’s about the quality of friendships made and a place where people feel they can connect no matter what skill level or background. We are simply a community based club.
“I’ve been at the club for 18 years. My loyalty lies with Lanyon Untied FC.
“It’s my family.”
