The Hampton Rovers Football Club is excited to announce a newly formed partnership with the Sandringham Zebras, which commenced at the start of the 2014 season.
Soon after the Rovers’ 2013 Premiership, discussion commenced between the two clubs which will see a number of positive initiatives implemented for 2014 and beyond.
The partnership is in anticipation of the Zebras one day reclaiming its reputation as a stand-alone force in the VFL, something which is likely to happen when the current deal with St Kilda ends after next season. The Zebras are well aware that in order to survive as a stand-alone club, they must have a strong relationship with clubs, supporters and businesses within the community.
The initiative will see a strong working relationship formed between the two Bayside clubs.
Zebras’ star onballer and Captain Adam Cockie has nominated the Rovers as his home club to play at when fixturing allows.
The Sandringham Football Club will make full use of the Rovers facilities at Boss James Reserve and in turn, the Rovers will have access to the Trevor Barker Oval facilities.
Last week saw 2013 Hampton Rovers premiership player Luke Verma make his senior VFL debut with the Zebras against Geelong at Trevor Barker Oval.
The partnership will also see the Sandringham coaching panel, led by Senior Coach Simon McPhee, assist with both senior and junior training at the Rovers, as well as hold coaching seminars for the Rovers senior and junior coaches throughout the year.
Hampton Rovers President Matthew Gray said the partnership is a clear indication that the Rovers are a club dedicated to providing genuine pathways for developing footballers, enabling them to progress to the highest level possible.
“More and more players are going to be drafted to AFL clubs via local pathways. This partnership will give our players the best opportunity to progress to a higher level if and when they are playing good football at the Rovers.”
The partnership also allows 10 Hampton Rovers players each year to join in pre-season training at the VFL club.
Current Rovers Coach Guy Martyn and Captain Leigh Fletcher both played senior football at Sandringham while many players have played at both clubs over the years.
This Saturday, the Hampton Rovers home game luncheon will celebrate the history and acknowledge the strong relationship that exists between the two Bayside clubs.
Attending the lunch will be Zebras Coach Simon McPhee, President Danny Corcoran, Captain Adam Cockie as well as a variety of key personnel from the club.
The Rovers take on fourth placed PEGS this Saturday, with a win all but guaranteeing the Rovers its second consecutive finals campaign in what has been a remarkable turnaround since suffering a double relegation in the previous two seasons. The Rovers have already played 49 players in the seniors this season and are looking strong as we reach the business end.
To book in for what is shaping up to be a memorable lunch, contact Gary Nash on gnash@jte.com.au or 0407 313 054. The cost is $30 per head. Club Memberships are also still available.
