The Richmond Football Club are saddened to learn of the passing over the last month of three important servants in the club’s history - Ian Robinson, Nancye Rodgers, and Peter Hafey.


Ian receiving his life membership from Gary March. Photo from Robinson family.

Ian “Robbo” Robinson received a club life membership in 2008 for his 30 years of service as a trainer for the Under 19s, Reserves, and Seniors. A passionate Tiger fan, Ian wore his emotions on his sleeve for all to see, proudly fist-pumping the Tiger victories as he walked off the field with the team. Ian passed away on May 2nd 2024 and the players wore black-arm bands against Fremantle in his honour.


Photo supplied by Rodgers family.

Nancye Rodgers was a vital volunteer at the club from 1983 – 2008. Supporters will remember being served by her in the Tiger Den/Merchandise shop. During the ‘Save Our Skin’ campaign she rolled up her sleeves and helped out with all fundraising activities including hosting a trivia night.

A key part of Alice Wills’ volunteering team, she quite deservedly was an inaugural recipient of the ‘Alice Wills Award’ at the 2017 AGM. Nancye died April 26th 2024, aged 91.


Peter Hafey (middle) with Ricky McLean (left) and Malcolm Greenslade (right) in 2014. Photo by Wayne Ludbey.

Peter Hafey, the younger brother of Richmond Immortal Tom, was the club’s runner from 1974-1976 including the 1974 premiership. When Tom left Tigerland for Collingwood, Peter followed him as the runner from 1977-1982 which included the 1977 drawn and replayed Grand Final, and 3 consecutive GF from 1979-1981.

He then joined Tommy at Kardinia Park when he was coaching Geelong from 1983-1985.

Peter himself was a former player for East Malvern in the Federal League, and for Camberwell in the VFA, and delivered the family eulogy at Tom’s funeral held at the MCG in 2014. Peter died May 3rd 2024 aged 82.