The Hampton Rovers will celebrate a remarkable milestone in 2026, with the club set to host its 200th consecutive Home Game Luncheon at Boss James Reserve during the Round 10 clash against St Bede’s/Mentone Tigers on Saturday June 27.
A staple of the club for more than two decades, the Home Game Luncheons have become a defining part of the Rovers match day experience. The tradition has seen the club host a function at every senior home game, with the only interruption coming during the Covid-impacted seasons. 2026 will again see the club host sit-down luncheons at all nine home games – one of only a handful of VAFA clubs to do so.
At the heart of the experience is the outstanding food provided by Luke and Scott from ASAT Catering, whose quality and consistency have earned a reputation as the best in the competition. Combined with a welcoming atmosphere, guest speakers, and the chance to connect with the broader Rovers community, the luncheons continue to be a highlight of the season for members and visitors alike.
Despite the ongoing cost of living pressures, the club has again frozen the price at just $40 per head, with the purchase of a 2026 Club Membership offering even better value, and we encourage everyone to show their support and join up.
The 2026 season promises to be another strong one off the field, with the club inviting members, parents, partners, past players, sponsors and opposition supporters to be part of the experience. Numbers have remained impressive, with the club averaging around 80 guests per lunch last year despite a challenging season, and more than 100 per lunch the year prior at Trevor Barker Oval. With renewed energy heading into 2026, those numbers are expected to climb again.
The first luncheon of the year will be held on ANZAC Day in Round 2 against arch rivals Ormond, a special occasion that will feature an on-ground ceremony and is expected to sell out. From there, a range of themed events will take place across the season, building towards the milestone 200th luncheon in late June.
Highlights include the Women’s Luncheon on May 9 where we’ll go pink and again raise funds for BCNA, the Premiership Reunions lunch on May 23 including celebrating 25 years of the 2001 C grade premiership, and the annual Past Players Day Luncheon on July 25.
Each luncheon is held in the Wright-Scarlett Pavilion at Boss James Reserve, with the bar opening from 12pm ahead of formalities at 12:30pm. The senior match begins at 2pm, with the bar remaining open until the end of half time, with four designated luncheons throughout the season to have all-day service in line with VAFA regulations.
A 2026 Club Membership offers excellent value and includes entry to Home Game Luncheons across the season, with packages available to purchase online now.
Bookings are essential. To assist volunteers and caterers, guests are encouraged to book by Thursday evening prior to each game – either on the website or by directly contacting Gary Nash. Payment can be made prior on the Rovers Online Shop or on the day. Bookings are now open for the first ANZAC Day Luncheon on April 25.
2026 Home Game Luncheon Schedule
- Sat 25 Apr – Round 2 v Ormond (ANZAC Day)
- Sat 2 May – Round 3 v Fitzroy (Friends of the Rovers)
- Sat 9 May – Round 4 v PEGS (Women’s Luncheon)
- Sat 23 May – Round 6 v Marcellin (Premiership Reunions: 2001, 1951, 1946)
- Sat 13 Jun – Round 8 v Parkdale Vultures (Theme TBC)
- Sat 27 Jun – Round 10 v St Bede’s/Mentone Tigers (200th Luncheon Celebration)
- Sat 25 Jul – Round 13 v Old Peninsula (Past Players Day)
- Sat 1 Aug – Round 14 v Mazenod (Theme TBC)
- Sat 15 Aug – Round 16 v Glen Eira (President’s Lunch)
Whether you’re a long-time supporter or visiting the club for the first time, the Rovers Home Game Luncheons remain one of the great match day experiences in the VAFA, and 2026 shapes as the perfect year to be part of it.
