August 2025
We are thrilled to announce that former professional footballer Nick Ansell, who began his very first football journey right here at Doncaster Rovers, is returning to the club as Technical Director for our MiniRoos and Juniors.
Nick’s career is one that inspires. After rising through the Doncaster youth ranks, he signed his first professional contract with Melbourne Victory at the age of 16, becoming a key player in their 2014–15 A‑League Premiership & Championship double at just 21 years of age. From there, he took his talents overseas to Portugal’s Primeira Liga with Tondela, followed by stints in South Korea’s K‑League 2 and back to Australia with Melbourne Victory and Adelaide United, before moving to Thailand’s top tier with Nakhon Ratchasima Mazda FC.
On the international stage, Nick proudly represented Australia u17’s, u20’s and u23’s and featuring in the under 17 world cup for Australia, gaining valuable experience at youth international football.
On the continental stage, Nick featured in three AFC Champions League campaigns with Melbourne Victory competing in Asia’s premier club competition against some of the continent’s best.
Now, he brings that wealth of knowledge from grassroots football to top-tier international competitions back to where it all began. In his new role, Nick will lead coaching and player development and junior pathway programs integrating with our Senior program, helping shape the next generation of talent.
Nick will also be opening the Nick Ansell Football Academy alongside Doncaster Rovers this October with holiday clinics and term 4 clinics: stay tuned for more information!
Please join us in welcoming Nick home! Nick will start his new role October 1st. We can’t wait to see the impact he’ll make both on and off the pitch fostering a love of the game and building a bright future for our young players.
