Roxburgh Park coach Michael Farrelly reveals his favourite memories

After six years in charge, Michael Farrelly will depart Roxburgh Park. He reveals his favourite memories and the players who have left a lasting impression.

Michael Farrelly says he has an “empty feeling” about leaving Roxburgh Park at the end of the season.

But for the sake of the Essendon District league outfit he believes it is the right decision.

Farrelly has been in charge since 2018 when the Magpies won the Division 2 premiership.

Along the way he’s faced challenges unlike any other including leading the club through the Covid pandemic where season 2020 was cancelled and 2021 severely impacted.

“It’s an empty feeling knowing you’re going to be leaving a club where I’ve made so many connections over the years,” he said.

“I think now is the right time to move on because I feel the club is going to benefit from a different voice. I’ve always been one to say you should leave the part when you’re having fun.

“I’ve got three kids under six at home, I haven’t had a two-day weekend with them in a while. This is my 28th straight season of footy and I think it’s time for something different.

“I’m not sure what the future holds in terms of footy but that’s not something I’m ready to decide upon yet.

“But all I know is I’m proud of what we’ve achieved.”

Reflecting on the big moments of his time in charge, Farrelly revealed his favourite memories and the players who have left a lasting impression.

Harley Short, Michael Farrelly and Osama Saad celebrate the 2018 premiership. Picture: Hamish Blair

BUILDING TO A PREMIERSHIP

“The year before I came across, the club finished third last on the ladder and we knew there was still some work to do,” he said.

“There were seven contracted players at the time and the first night on the track we had 11 guys. We recruited pretty heavily to help us build and we ended up winning the premiership.

“It was the club’s first so it was pretty special to be involved in that.”

THE BUSHFIRE GAME

“When Victoria was impacted by bushfires in 2020, we wanted to find a way to help raise as much money as possible. We were very fortunate to get the best players — men’s and women’s — from the EDFL to come together and play a game,” he said.

“The team names were Fire and Smoke and we raised just under $28,000. Being able to support people in a time of need was really special.”

STAYING UP

“When you win promotion to a higher division, everyone knows how difficult it is to stay up,” he said.

“Fortunately for us, we’ve got better every year, it has been a gradual journey. Unfortunately we’ve plateaued a little this year but there are reasons for that. We had a game the other week where we had two ACLs, a broken ankle and a dislocated shoulder in one quarter.

“I don’t like to use injuries as an excuse but it does make things feel a little flat. We’re still in a position to get to 9-9 to end the season which would put us in a better position than last year.”

Outgoing Roxburgh Park coach Micheal Farrelly.Picture: George Sal

JACK ELLIOTT

“I’ve been very fortunate to watch him grow in the last few years,” Farrelly said.

“He’s a genuine person with his involvement at the club. He’s arguably the best ruckman in our division at the moment and that compliments him as an outstanding captain.”

HARLEY SHORT

“A former captain and best-and-fairest winner who I’ve enjoyed working closely with,” he said.

“He’s a great servant of the footy club, I’m glad he’s been on our side.”