SEASON 2011…………….. Bring it on!!
The Rovers are in great shape to launch the season. I’m Excited!
A few of our older members have expressed concern about the players we have lost this year. In fact, we have lost 4 players to other clubs (to the country to play for cash), plus 2 retirements.
BUT, how are we really looking?
We have signed 33 new or returning players so far this year, with more to come, plus several U19’s from last year looking good. Some of the players expected to play senior football include:
Nick Henry – Injured all last year. Midfielder – B grade B&F winner at Beaumaris in the past – "gun" junior player returning
Zac Alcott – New Player. Key forward from Beaumaris
Alex Whalebone – Up from U16’s. Zippy Rover, has stood-out in practice matches
Ben Trivett – From Old Brighton. Tough, tall with good skills
Tom Mitchell – Returning from a year overseas and time at St Bedes/Mentone. Plenty of quality and a long-term Rovers player.
Jordan Goss – Back after a year off. Good skills, boxing fit and getting fitter each practice match
Matt Innes – Another returning player from the 2009 U19 premiership side
Carl Emmins – Dual De La U19’s Premiership player. Key position/onballer – Former top junior player returning
Kelvin Rudd – Back after a year off. Tough utility with good blood lines
Lachlan McDonald – From Beaconsfield. Impressed in early practice games, will return from injury in 1-2 weeks.
Plus, not to forget three gun players who’ll again be running around in the green & gold: Daniel Corp (former senior VFL player, missed the bulk of last year to injury, now in good shape – key forward), Guy Martyn (had an operation in the offseason and will return in a few weeks – midfield & key forward) and Leigh Fletcher (reigning VAFA B grade competition B&F)
In addition, the likes of Richard Atkins & Tom Youl coming up from the U19Â’s have really impressed during the practice games and will play a role in the seniors in 2011.
Russell Barnes has provided a much more structured approach for the players and he has great support in the likes of assistant coach Steve Kennedy (former Sandringham Dragons & Parkdale Vultures coach) and Brendan Robbins. Overall player numbers are strong. In other news, weÂ’ve had three Canadian players join us and the Canadian national coach (here for the International Cup later this year) will be Anthony QuonÂ’s assistant coach in the Reserves. ItÂ’s also great to see Tony Naumoff (U19 coach) and David Rogerson (Snr runner) back involved at the club.
2011 Club Memberships are now on sale and I encourage all supporters to back the club and purchase a membership this year. See the website www.hamptonrovers.com.au or see Cameron Voss. Get along to the home game luncheons, starting with the season opener this Saturday vs St Kevins at Boss James Reserve. Book online or speak with Jenny Voss.
While itÂ’s disappointing to lose a few players, there are many more positives to look forward to in 2011. Get behind the club and letÂ’s make it another big year.
GO ROVERS!
Regards,
Jim Westhead
President
HRAFC | www.hamptonrovers.com.au
