After claiming back-to-back Senior Premierships, the Rovers return to Premier B section of the VAFA in 2015 and with that comes a number of local matches in what should be a great season.
While previous seasons in Premier B section have comprised multiple long away trips, next year looks appealing with a number of Bayside teams and the resumption of some great rivalries.
Next season will see local matches against old foes Old Brighton and St Bedes/Mentone Tigers (both down from Premier section) and of course Grand Final opponents Parkdale Vultures. Not too further away is Caulfield Grammarians while the club will resume hostilities with Ajax (Albert Park) and play on the Junction Oval against Old Melburnians.
Another former VFL ground will host the Rovers – Brunswick Street Oval (Fitzroy). St Kevins’ TH King Oval will be a different experience than it last was in 2011 with a new pavilion having being built and an improved playing surface while Mazenod now play on the second ground at Central Reserve which has much improved facilities.
Since 1995 when the club won the drought-breaking Premiership in D section – the first since the A section flag of 1951 – the club has spent seven seasons in B section (including 2015), 11 in C section and three in D section. During this period, the club has participated in seven senior Grand Finals, winning five, including 2013 and 2014 of course. View the full timeline here.
The club appears to be better positioned than in previous attempts at the second-highest division of the VAFA. With a strong coaching panel headed by Guy Martyn and Owen Lalor, record playing numbers (150 across the four senior teams in 2014), an abundance of quality youngsters and a wealth of experienced players, back-to-back senior flags and an U19 premiership, the future looks bright at Boss James Reserve.
The step from C to B is greater than D to C and the club is working hard to ensure the momentum built over the past two seasons continues in to 2015.
Pre-Season Training commences on Wednesday 26th November and continues each Monday and Wednesday. Meet 6pm at Boss James Reserve. The club welcomes all new and existing players. Prior to this, a Pre-Season Launch will be held on Friday 21st November at the Hampton RSL from 6pm onwards – all players and supporters are welcome. Click Here for all the Pre-Season details.
The 2015 VAFA season kicks-off on Saturday 11th April and the fixture is expected to be released in early December. The club will again field four senior teams and the club extends a welcome to all new players wishing to play for the Hampton Rovers in 2015.
It’s an exciting era for the Rovers and we encourage everyone to be involved. Club Membership and Sponsorship information for 2015 will be available on the website in the near future. Don’t forget to follow the Rovers on social media: Facebook, Twitter & Instagram.
VAFA PREMIER B 2015
Ajax
Caulfield Grammarians
Fitzroy
Hampton Rovers
Mazenod
Old Brighton
Old Melburnians
Parkdale Vultures
St Bedes/Mentone Tigers
St Kevins
