It’s not every day you get to write a tribute like this — one that celebrates not just a football milestone, but a football journey. Rob Chan will run out for his 200th senior game with Williamstown CYMS this weekend, and for me, as someone who’s coached him since primary school, it’s a moment filled with pride and reflection.
I first coached Rob as a determined, quietly competitive primary schooler — the kind of kid who never needed the spotlight but always earned respect. That attitude has followed him all the way through his footy journey, from junior fields to VAFA senior ovals, and it’s what’s made him such a rare and reliable footballer.
Rob was part of our inaugural Under 18s team back in 2011 — a foundation year for both the club and his senior pathway. From there, he moved through the U19s, and when he aged out, he stepped straight into senior football. That alone speaks volumes about the kind of player he was dependable, composed, and ready.
And in his very first season of senior footy? A premiership. Won on his birthday, no less — a memory that will live long not just for Rob, but for all of us who shared in it.
Over the years, Rob became the kind of footballer coaches dream of: not always in the best, but always the most dependable. He’s the bloke you could trust to play his role week in, week out, regardless of the opponent, conditions or scoreboard. A natural team man.
Rob has worn the captain’s armband during his time at the club — a fitting recognition of his values and example — but even without the title, he’s always led. Whether it was training standards, big moments in games, or the quiet word to a younger player, Rob has always understood what it means to represent something bigger than yourself. What it means to be CYs.
On a personal note, Rob has had a deeper impact on me than he probably realises. When I hung up the boots and was weighing up whether to coach, it was players like Rob — former students I’d taught and coached — who inspired me to reconnect. He reminded me what I loved about the game and the people in it. He was one of the key reasons I stepped into coaching, and I’ve never looked back.
To play 200 games at one club is a remarkable achievement. To do it with the humility, loyalty, and work ethic Rob has shown makes it even more special.
Rob, from the classroom to the CYs change rooms, it’s been a privilege to watch your journey. Congratulations on 200 games — you’ve given so much to this club, and we’re all better for it.
From his coach of 138 games and life time friend
Mat Montebello
