FNQ football: Stratford FC lands huge coaching coup ready for 2024

The key components of Stratford’s new era have emerged with a newly appointed president, coach and coaching team locked in to guide Dolphins to glory.

President Ange Serafin and Coach Pasco Rogato will spearhead a new era at Stratford FC after securing their future with the FQPL Far North and Gulf club.

Leading the Open side, Rogato will collaborate with coaches John Thomas (U23) and Daniel Swift (U18), who is making the transition from U16.

Martin Fehlberg will continue to leverage his three decades of coaching experience, acquired through various school football and excellence programs, in the women’s program.

Felhberg said he is confident in the club’s clear direction and is set to lead the open women’s side for his third consecutive season.

“New president, new coach and new energy,” Fehlberg said.

“It’s super exciting and we can all see the absolute potential here.

“There’s fresh ideas and we believe in what we’re trying to achieve.

“The worm will turn we just have to be patient and chip away at it.”

Stratford Dolphins Coaches Martin Fehlberg, Pasco Rogato and Daniel Swift, at Nick Brko Oval in Stratford. Picture: Emily Barker.

Newly announced president Serafin is ambitious for the 2024 season, with pre-season beginning in January.

“Moving forward as a club, I think we needed a bit of a change, a bit of a mix up.” Serafin said.

“We want as a club to prioritise culture, development and everything follows after that.”

Stratford Dolphins Opens Coach Pasco Rogato at Nick Brko Oval in Stratford. Picture: Emily Barker.

Rogato arrives at the club driven by the belief Dolphins can achieve big things in 2024 and return to being the force it was in its formative years.

Local legend in his own right; he’s been a mainstay in FNQ football as a player and coach for numerous years representing all levels.

Despite being a Liverpool fan, Rogato is not caught up trying to be the next Jürgen Klopp or Pep Guardiola.

He said he will adapt to the players at his disposal and not force a system that realistically can’t be executed.

“In terms of style, first things first, let’s see what we’ve got and then we’ll adapt the style,” Rogato said.

“We want to prioritise providing opportunities for young players, but not forgetting the immense value older players bring, because you can’t buy experience.

“We want to develop players, but it’s a competitive league and we’re here to win.

“It’s just finding that balance.”

Stratford Dolphins U23 Coach John Thomas at Nick Brko Oval in Stratford. Picture: Pasco Rogato

Thomas said some players will be ready football wise to be promoted through the teams but may not be ready mentally for the challenge.

Dealing with the transition of children to adults can create difficult dilemmas when it comes to managing the footballer first or the individual.

Serafin said form will always be rewarded at the Dolphins, although managing a young player’s development and future will always take priority. Understanding an early step-up into the first division may shatter a player’s confidence. The coaching team believes honest communication and pre-existing relationships will give them the fortitude to deal with these dilemmas and build a strong club culture.

Stratford Dolphins Womens Coach Martin Fehlberg at Nick Brko Oval in Stratford. Picture: Emily Barker.

“It’s more than just football for us, we care about the person and keeping them involved in the club community,” Fehlberg said.

“Pasco and I have known each other for about twenty years through football.

“There’s no airs and graces (among all of) us, we don’t tread on each other’s toes at all.

“But we all have a sense of when we are beginning to encroach on another coach’s turf and it’s quite seamless that understanding.”

Stratford Dolphins U18 Coach Daniel Swift at Nick Brko Oval in Stratford. Picture: Emily Barker.

Serafin said the club has a decorated history that spans 60 years, he believes constructing a rigid club culture will power the club for another 60 years.

Dolphins believe winning games of football is important, but hope the family element of the club will be key in retaining players for the future.

Originally published as FNQ football: Stratford FC lands huge coaching coup ready for 2024