Southern league: Matt Ferguson locked in as new coach of Hampton
Ferguson has joined the Hammers after spending the past three seasons at rival Division 2 club Keysborough.
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He stepped down from Keysborough, but Matt Ferguson will remain in Southern league Division 2 coaching ranks after being appointed senior coach of Hampton.
The Hammers locked in Ferguson on Monday night as their replacement for Craig McIndoe.
Hampton was a top-five rival for Ferguson and Keysy this year, and he believes he’s taking on a club with the potential to improve.
The Hammers lost to eventual premier Doveton Eagles in the elimination final.
“I was pretty impressed with what they achieved this year, playing finals with such a young list,’’ Ferguson said on Tuesday.
“To be honest we had to come from behind at three-quarter time twice to beat them. I had a fair bit of respect for the way they went about things. They were a really tough team to play against. I think there’s a lot of scope for them to get better. There’s a good core group of players, and the committee has a really good outlook in terms of improving things.
“I’m seeing it as a great opportunity. Ultimately everyone wants to win a flag and that’s what we’re going to work towards now.’’
Ferguson had three seasons as Keysborough’s senior coach and the Burras made the finals each year.
Many Southern league followers were surprised when he parted ways with the club.
“I had six years there all up and decided it was time for me to look at other opportunities,’’ Ferguson responded.
“Hampton was one of the jobs that was available. I like the league, I like the people within the league, so I’m happy to be staying in it.’’
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It also means he’ll be coaching against Keysborough.
“Yeah, that will be tough, because I’ve got a lot of good mates at Keysy,’’ Ferguson said.
“But the other side of it is that I’ll get to have a beer with them at least twice next year after the game.’’
Class act Mark Deveraux won the Hammers’ best and fairest from fellow onballer Alex Gleeson.
Guy Timms was most consistent, Carl Nichols most improved, Pat Bolger the best team player and Michael Ashman the leading goalscorer (32).