Cr Chedid said Shinji Ono’s starring role for the Wanderers, which ends at the close of the regular season in May, and his popularity with fans has made him a hero.
“The community has taken great pride in the Wanderers and Shinji. This award recognises his dedication to the sport and Western Sydney,” Cr Chedid said.
“Ono's signing was a major coup for the Wanderers, helping raise the profile of the team and Parramatta. He's a true ambassador for our City who has had a huge influence on fans, businesses and the local community.
“Council would like to wish Shinji great success in his return to Japan and will forever remember his talents both on and off the field.”
Wanderers’ midfielder Shinji Ono said he was proud to have received the medal and thanked the community for all their support.
“When I play in Parramatta I feel like I’m part of a family. It’s an incredible feeling every time I get on the field. The atmosphere created by the crowd is fantastic,” Ono said.
“I will miss the fans and my teammates, and I hope to one day come back either as a player or coach, or even as a spectator.”
