Ken Morton, the inaugural coach of the Wollongong Wolves, will be cheering for South Hobart during their match at the Collegians Sports Centre on Sunday. Although he began his managerial career in Wollongong in the early 1980s, Morton has made Tasmania his home since 2008, coaching the South Hobart men’s team for a significant portion of that time.
At 78, Morton recently transitioned into an advisory role at South Hobart while remaining actively involved with the club’s academy and women’s Super League team. He also plays a part in the Tasmanian A-League bid. His coaching journey spans various countries, including stints in Malaysia, the Maldives, Vietnam, and Ethiopia.
Reflecting on His Wollongong Roots
Morton fondly recalls his time with the Wolves, who were then known as Wollongong City. During the 1981-82 season, he guided the team to an 11th-place finish before stepping down after 22 rounds of the following season. “When I went there to take on the job, it was absolutely unbelievable,” he remarked. He praised the club’s early days, stating, “Setting up the Wolves from the start was a big job, but I think it was a job we did well in the first couple of years.”
He highlighted the importance of the local players, saying, “The local lads were super; they fitted in with the way we wanted to do things, and it was just a fantastic experience.” Morton’s tenure in Wollongong laid the groundwork for his successful coaching career.
South Hobart’s Championship Aspirations
As for the upcoming match, Morton made it clear where his loyalties lie. “I love Wollongong and have many friends here, but I’m in the South Hobart camp 100 percent,” he stated. Despite acknowledging the challenges ahead, he remains optimistic about his team’s performance. “We want to come there on Sunday and get a result, if possible,” he added.
Morton emphasized the positive development of his young squad, saying, “I think we’ve done exceptionally well with the very young side that we have. It’s been a great experience for our young players, coming up against the Wolves, Marconi, and Heidelberg.” He particularly noted that Marconi and Heidelberg are among the strongest teams in the competition, suggesting they possess the quality to compete at the A-League level.
Looking ahead, Morton expressed pride in how South Hobart has conducted itself in the Championship. “I’m very proud of the way the club has conducted itself in the Championship and the way the players are going about the business,” he remarked. He anticipates a spirited match against the Wolves, saying, “We will come to the Wolves in a positive manner, I’m sure.”
Morton’s return to Wollongong not only signifies his deep-rooted connections to the area but also highlights his ongoing commitment to football development in Tasmania. As the match approaches, both fans and players alike look forward to this engaging encounter.
