In the second part of a special 1972 Richmond Annual Report flashback series, leading into the Club’s 2022 Annual General Meeting on Monday, December 19, we reproduce an article from the publication on the Tigers’ key football personnel and the playing group from that season.
SENIOR COACH
We earnestly believe we have one of the outstanding coaches in Australian Football in Tom Hafey, who had a splendid year. Unfortunately, we were unable to win the premiership, but this can, in no way, reflect upon our fine mentor who carried out his duties magnificently with the material he had available.
We trust that Tom can continue with the Club for many years and his loyalty can be rewarded by the winning of the premiership in 1973; a great Tiger.
ASSISTANT COACH
Due to the transfer of Verdun Howell to Claremont, in Western Australia, Col Saddington was promoted from Under 19 grade coach to assistant coach. Col rendered great support to Tom Hafey and guided the reserve grade into the finals in which it finished in fourth position.
SUMMER SESSIONS Celebrate the festive season with an open training session in Cardinia Shire
UNDER 19 GRADE COACH
Following a year as a television commentator, Ray Jordon returned as Under 19 grade coach, where his capabilities as a coach were again exemplified and resulted in the Club playing in the finals though the average age was only 16.
TEAM MANAGER
Despite pressing business commitments, Graeme Richmond again acted as team manager. We thank Graeme most sincerely for the time and effort he gives to this position.
His personal guidance is of immeasurable benefit to the players and is greatly appreciated.
PLAYERS
Champion centre half-forward Royce Hart was appointed captain and his great ability and leadership was an inspiration to all. He climaxed an outstanding year by winning the Club Best and Fairest award and playing his 100th game.
Kevin Bartlett was elevated from deputy vice-captain to vice-captain and again had an excellent year, though his record run of 129 consecutive games finally reached its end through injury.
Francis Bourke was appointed deputy vice-captain and rendered great service to the Club, finishing runner-up to Royce Hart in the Best and Fairest award.
In a season in which 26 matches were played, not one player participated in every match.
Thirty-six players played in the senior team and first-year players included: Ricky McLean, Marty McMIllan, Paul Sproule, Bryan Wood, Bill Nalder, Mervyn Keane, Tony Hunt, Stephen Hywood and Graham Gaunt.
Wayne Walsh, who played with the Club in 1968, returned from the South Melbourne Football Club.
For the second successive season, three players – Neil Balme (55), Ricky McLean (55) and Royce Hart (52) – kicked over 50 goals, thus equalling the record of the Melbourne Football Club in 1926.
