Eltham coach Tim Bongetti is in stable condition in hospital after allegedly being cowardly punched during a local football match on Sunday.
Bongetti, who played in a Northern Football Netball League (NFNL) Division 1 reserve semi-final for the Panthers earlier in the day, was allegedly attacked while watching the senior match between Diamond Creek and Greensborough at Preston City Oval (PCO).
Police were called after he was reported to have been knocked unconscious and was taken by ambulance to Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Eltham Football Club released a statement on Sunday night.
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"We would like to provide a brief update and let everyone know that Tim is doing okay," the statement read.
"He is stable, responsive and surrounded by his family and those closest to him.
"Right now, our thoughts and support are with Tim and his family, and we ask that their privacy is respected as they focus on him and his recovery.
"As this is a police matter, we are unable to provide any further comment or information at this time.
"We sincerely appreciate everyone who has reached out with their care, concern and support for Tim and his family."
Bongetti, only two weeks ago, recommitted as Eltham senior men's coach for 2027.
The NFNL released a statement saying it was investigating and supporting Bongetti and his family.
"The NFNL strongly opposes all forms of violence and is reviewing the events at Preston City Oval on Sunday 6 September, the league statement said.
"The League is working with the parties involved and is providing support to the injured person, their family, and their club.
"Given the incident is being investigated by police, the NFNL will not be making further comment at this time."
He is a former Greensborough captain, leading the club to a 2014 Division 1 premiership against Heidelberg, playing alongside the current Borough coach Matt Hyde.
Greensborough Football Club released a statement Monday night saying a number of different accounts of the incidents are being shared publicly, most of which are false.
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"Greensborough Football Club is aware of commentary and speculation following an off-field incident during yesterday's Division 1 Seniors Elimination Final, involving a Greensborough spectator and a senior official from another football club.
"The Club does not condone violence in any form and takes the safety of everyone attending community football extremely seriously.
"We are aware that a number of different accounts and characterisations of the incident are currently being shared publicly, most of which are completely false and are representing our club in a poor light, which is extremely disappointing. It is important to note that the incident was not football-related, did not occur on the field, and did not involve any of the club's players or anyone acting in any official capacity.
"Given the matter is now subject to a police investigation, the Club does not believe it is appropriate to comment further on the circumstances leading up to or surrounding the incident."
Police Victoria confirmed officers were called to the ground.
“Police received a report of an assault during a football match in Preston on 6 September,” a spokesperson said.
“Investigators have been told the incident occurred in the grandstand of the Cramer Street sporting ground.
“A 37-year-old Doreen man was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
“Officers have identified all parties involved; however, no complaint has been made at this point in time. Investigations remain ongoing.”
Ambulance Victoria said Bongetti was treated at the scene and in a stable condition.
“Ambulance Victoria responded to an incident in Preston about 3:20 pm, September 6,” a spokesperson said.
“Advanced Life Support (ALS) paramedics assessed and treated one person at the scene.
“A man in his 30s with upper body injuries was transported by road ambulance to Royal Melbourne Hospital in a stable condition.”
