The Hampton Rovers win in Saturdays Preliminary Final has not only book a spot in the season decider, it has promoted the club back into VAFA C Section after just one season in D1 Section.
After the disappointment of relegation, many clubs struggle to recover – some spend a few years down while others continue to slide. Its a testament to everyone at the Hampton Rovers for the success in 2007.
Hampton were relegated to D1 Section following a disappointing few years after dropping from B grade in 2003. This was the first time in D grade for the club since the premiership year of 1995. Since that time, the Rovers have spent 8 seasons in C Section and 3 seasons up in B Section.
2007 saw many changes at Hampton. First and foremost was a restructured committee with a host of new faces. On the football side, the club welcomed former VFA player Gary Sheldon as new senior coach, while a number of new and returning players have worn the green and gold this year.
Gary has done a sensational job with the team and the atmosphere around the club has improved immensely. Now one game remains the Grand Final.
Hampton Rovers will be joined by Oakleigh who have also gained promotion to C Section in 2008. Local rivalries will resume with Ormond and Parkdale Vultures. Also in there are the Monash Blues, Mazenod and Whitefriars, while one of Rupertswood and Old Carey will remain in C grade with the other moving up to B with Old Camberwell. Fitzroy Reds and North Old Boys have been relegated to D1 Section.
