Robinson, who originally came to Ballarat as playing coach of the Reds at the start of last year, will play for the Vikings in the Ballarat District Soccer Association for the rest of the season.

In a massive coup for Sebastopol, Robinson is expected to play in the Sunday league for the rest of the season, starting this weekend against North United.

It will be his first competitive match in 18 months, having never ended up playing a game for the Red Devils.

The A-League championship player will continue his full-time coaching duties for the McDonalds Reds.

Robinson said he had ruled out a return for the Ballarat in the National Premier Leagues Victoria 1 competition, but had always longed to lace up the boots again.

“First and foremost I love the game, that's why I coach,” he said.

“Playing for the Red Devils would be a detriment to what we're trying to do there because I haven't played for 18 months.”

“My first intention when I came to Ballarat 16 months ago was to play and coach, before the landscape changed. I wanted to give something back more than anything else, I wanted to give something back at local level.”

The Vikings are currently sitting fourth on the BDSA open division table.

Club president Rod Oppenhuis said Robinson was easily the biggest name to ever play at the club and probably within the league itself.

“It's going to be great for the local competition that somebody with A-League experience can give something back to the league, so we're rapt," Oppenhuis said.

“We're just hoping he enjoys himself, that's what it comes down to.”

As it stands, there has not yet been any thoughts of Robinson playing for Sebastopol in its higher-ranked Football Federation Victoria state league four side.

Robinson, born in Liverpool, played 41 A-League games for Melbourne Victory, Perth Glory and North Queensland Fury between 2006 and 2010.