The 2002-03 campaign delivered a solid season for Roda JC, with Koempels securing a respectable 6th-place finish in the Eredivisie. Spearheading the attack was the prolific Greek forward Yannis Anastasiou, whose 11 goals proved vital for the club. The season featured a blend of experience, including veteran Mark Luijpers, and emerging talent like Eric Addo, and was characterized by a hard-fought run to the Round of 16 in the KNVB Cup, demonstrating the team's determination in the Dutch top flight.