Returning overseas quartet boosts Rovers

The Hampton Rovers AFC will be boosted in 2005 by the return of four players from the United Kingdom. All have previously played senior footy at the club and pulled on the boots for the Wimbledon Hawks while overseas.

Rovers big-man Sam Parkinson will prove influential after dominating in the UK, including winning the league best and fairest last year. Sam commenced at the Rovers in 1993 playing juniors before 47 senior games. After being offered considerable money to play for other clubs in the area, Sam proved his loyalty to the Hampton Rovers by returning to the club.

Club veteran Drew Anderson also makes a comeback in 2005. Drew commenced his footy with the Rovers in 1984 and has played a total of 294 games including 152 senior matches.

Also returning to the club this year is Jason Zampaglione and Luke Holt. Jason commenced in 1997 and has played a total of 106 games while Luke has played 18 games for the club.

The four returning players, along with the other Rovers recruits including former Sandringham Zebras captain Heath Tregear, will enhance the club’s chances of a successful 2005 VAFA season.

The Wimbledon Hawks, founded in 1990, made it to the British Australian Rules Football League (BARFL) Grand Final last year however lost the game to the West London Wildcats by 64 points. The club has recently announced an affiliation with Hawthorn FC.