Impressive figures for any player at the game’s highest level, let alone someone, who was a mature-age selection at pick 73 overall in the National Draft.
Tuck, the son of AFL games record-holder and seven-time Hawthorn premiership hero, Michael Tuck, arrived at Tigerland in late 2003, aged 21 (he would turn 22 on Christmas Eve) following a three-year stint on the Hawks’ rookie list and then one season with SANFL club West Adelaide.
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He made a slow start to his Richmond career, having to wait until Round 14 of the 2004 season to make his AFL debut, against Brisbane at the Gabba.
Just two more senior appearances followed that year and, at season’s end, Tuck’s name was in the Tigers’ delisting frame.
Ultimately, it came down to a choice between Tuck and fellow midfielder Tim Fleming, for the one remaining spot on Richmond’s senior list.
Given the fact Tuck senior was a late bloomer, the Tigers opted to take a punt on Tuck junior, and retained his services.
Eight years on, that’s proven to be a particularly wise decision . . .
Tuck, with his superb ball-winning ability, toughness, consistency, durability and resilience has provided the Richmond side with enormous value.
Admittedly, there have been other times throughout Tuck’s Tigerland tenure, where he’s fallen out of favour.
On each occasion, however, he’s shown tremendous spirit to fight back and restore his reputation as a mighty midfield warrior.
Shane Tuck profile
Born: 24/12/1981
Height: 189cm
Weight: 92kg
Draft history: Taken by the Tigers at pick 73 overall in the 2003 National Draft
Guernsey number at Richmond: No. 21
Debut at Richmond: Round 14, 2004 v Brisbane at the Gabba
Games at Richmond (2004-2012): 162
Goals at Richmond: 69
Honors at Richmond: Runner-up in the 2008 Jack Dyer Medal, third in the 2005 and 2007 Best and Fairest, fourth in 2012, fifth in 2010 and winner of the Best Clubman award in 2005
