Photo: Tony Pignata (left) with noted football journalist Ted Symmons in Salamanca Place, Hobart. [PlessPix]Football Tasmania CEO Tony Pignata has been awarded a Medal
of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the Governor General's Australia Day Honours
today, in recognition of his significant services to football across Australia.
Mr Pignata’s contribution to the game spans playing,
administration and senior executive leadership, with influence across
grassroots, State and national levels of Australian football. His football
journey began as a junior player at Salesian College, where his lifelong
involvement in the game was first established. He progressed through the
Victorian football system and went on to play in the National Premier
Leagues (NPL) with Box Hill Inter, gaining valuable on-field
experience and a deep understanding of the domestic football landscape.
Transitioning into administration, Mr Pignata built a
distinguished career in football leadership. He served as Chief Executive
Officer of Football Victoria, where he played a central role in governance
reform, participation growth and the strengthening of development pathways
across the State.
Mr Pignata later moved into the professional game, serving
as Chief Executive Officer across three A-League clubs. During this
period, he oversaw sustained on-field success, commercial growth and
organisational stability, contributing to the evolution and credibility of the
national competition.
His tenure included playing a key role in attracting a
globally-recognised marquee player to the A-League, a landmark moment that
significantly elevated the league’s international profile, commercial appeal
and supporter engagement.
Mr Pignata has been CEO of Football Tasmania since
September 2023, where he continues to focus on participation growth,
high-performance pathways and ensuring the long-term sustainability of football
across the State.
Mr Pignata said he was humbled by today's honour.
“I am deeply honoured to receive the Medal of the Order of
Australia for services to football,” Mr Pignata said.
“This recognition reflects the efforts of many people I’ve
had the privilege of working alongside - players, coaches, volunteers,
administrators and clubs who give so much to the game at every level.”
He said football’s ability to connect communities had been a
consistent motivator throughout his career.
“Football is more than a sport," he said. "It is a
community, a pathway and a powerful connector across cultures and generations.
I’m proud to have contributed to a game that has given me so much.”
Mr Pignata also acknowledged the support of his family and
colleagues. “Any contribution I’ve made has only been possible because of the
encouragement and support of my family, friends and colleagues over many
years," he said. "This honour belongs to all of them as well.”
The Medal of the Order of Australia recognises Australians
who have demonstrated outstanding service and commitment within their field and
community.
Football Tasmania president and chair Bob Gordon said Mr Pignata was a
deserving recipient of the Award, citing his longevity in the game and his
extensive experience.
“Football Tasmania is very fortunate to have a CEO of Tony’s
calibre,” he said.
“His experience, expertise and football knowledge is second
to none, and he has led many organisations through periods of enormous growth
and development. We are privileged to be a part of his legacy to our great
game.”
