It was a proud moment for Wellington Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick on Friday September 5.

It was a proud moment for Wellington Phoenix coach Ernie Merrick on Friday September 5 when Victoria’s Governor Alex Chernov presented him with the Order of Australia Medal.

Merrick was awarded the OAM in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List and had wife Kerry and his brother Peter alongside him when receiving the award at Melbourne’s Government House.

“It was a great family day and having a glass of champagne on the lawn was very nice,” a smiling Merrick said.

The successful coach was given the OAM for his services to football after beginning his coaching career at Dufton Football Club in 1979 and going on to assist in producing top young players at the Victorian Institute of Sport.

Merrick was also involved with Australian national teams at under-17, under-20 and Olympic level.

“I have been very fortunate in enjoying what I do,” Merrick said.

“You don’t expect to be recognised in this way but it is really appreciated.’