Official pre-season proceedings have come to an end with the Rovers final practice game last Saturday and the 2006 VAFA season is just one week away from kicking off and the Rovers are ready to fire.
Pre-season commenced for the boys in green and gold back in November with varied training sessions – on the track and at the beach. After the Christmas break, the guys stepped up their preparation as training recommenced in mid-January. The highlight of the pre-season was the survivor Camp?, held on the foreshore of Rosebud. The 2-day camp was of great benefit for all in attendance.
All practice games in 2006 were held at Boss James Reserve with the first against B section side Beaumaris, the Rovers put in a good performance but went down. The following week they took on Old Camberwell and recorded a solid 4-point victory. The final hit-out was against C grade newcomers Ormond, with several players missing the Rovers were defeated.
After a disappointing 2005 riddled by injuries, the Hampton Rovers are looking to step up in 2006 and compete in the finals action come seasons end. This years C section competition is set to be a tough one with St. Bedes Mentone and North Old Boys relegated from B section and Fitzroy Reds and Ormond promoted from D1 section.
North Old Boys have merged with St. Patricks Colledge which is sure to add extra firepower, and St. Bedes appear to be early premiership favourites with several new players added to their squad.
The 2006 VAFA season kicks-off Saturday 22nd April with the Rovers taking on St. Bedes Mentone first up at Mentone Reserve. Their first home game of the season is the following Saturday against North Old Boys at Boss James Reserve.
If you?re still contemplating playing for the Hampton Rovers in 2006, its not too late to join up. New players are always welcome. Click here for full details. As always, the Rovers need your support in 2006. Get involved in the club by playing, supporting, becoming a member, volunteering, or sponsoring. Join the Rovers in 2006 – Click Here!