Hampton Rovers senior coach Marty Pask has announced he will step down from his role at the end of the 2025 season, bringing to a close a decorated 14-year coaching career.
Pask will see out the remaining three matches of the year, beginning with Saturday’s round 16 VAFA Premier B Men’s clash against Old Melburnians at Elsternwick Park.
Club President Gary Nash paid tribute to Pask’s contribution over the past two seasons at the Rovers.
“After 12 seasons of coaching, Marty has called time on his career and will not continue after the 2025 season. I would like to thank him for his time at the Club.
“Last year we had a great ride – no clubrooms, no ground – but we grew as a club and performed admirably under difficult circumstances, gaining promotion.
“This season has been very tough as injuries and unavailability have decimated the list, however each week he has fielded a committed and determined team against the odds in an extremely competitive Premier B section. Thank you, Marty.”
Reflecting on his decision, Pask spoke candidly about the demands and rewards of coaching at community level.
“It’s funny about coaching, it consumes you and it dominates your life. You live and breathe it, ride every bump. Fourteen years is a long time and I feel I’ve just about seen every aspect of football.
“Coaching at community level is authentic – you pump up footballs, fill water bottles, flip burgers and move magnets, all while setting cultural standards and trying to compete to win games. I feel in some ways I have tried to give back to the game, but I’m simply done.”
Pask said last season, which saw Hampton Rovers surge into form despite significant off-field challenges, was one of the highlights of his career.
“2024 was just about the best memory I had in football. We caught fire and witnessed what can happen when everyone in a community can jump on. I loved it. I’m proud of the impact I’ve had and the many relationships I’ve formed, but for now, the coaching chapter is closed.”
The club will now commence the process of appointing Pask’s replacement for the 2026 VAFA season.
