When Richmond’s two selections in the recent AFL national draft, Kaleb Smith and Steely Green, hopefully play together one day at senior level with the Tigers, it will break a long-standing drought in the Club’s history.
Not since 1969 have a Smith and a Green lined up in the same Richmond senior side.
And, despite the popularity of the two surnames, that is the one and only time it has happened throughout 137 years at Tigerland, reports Club historian Rhett Bartlett.
SUMMER SESSIONS Celebrate the festive season with an open training session in Cardinia Shire
It was Round 17 of the 1969 season against Melbourne at the MCG that rising Richmond star ruckman Michael Green, playing his 51st game in the seniors, was joined by talented teenage forward debutant Anthony Smith.
The Tigers cruised to a 40-point win – 19.11 (125) to 12.13 (85). Green starred with 20 disposals, 12 marks, one goal and 26 hit-outs, but Smith, who was a reserve (19th man), came off the bench late in the match and had just one disposal.
Unfortunately for Smith, his playing career at Richmond was ruined because of severe knee trouble.
He managed just three more senior appearances throughout his time with the Tigers.
Green, on the other hand, had a distinguished league football career, playing in four Richmond premierships, providing the team with excellent value in his ruck role, and becoming a member of the Tigers’ Team of the Century, as well as a Hall of Fame member at the Club.
