In the third part of a special 1972 Richmond Annual Report flashback series leading into the Club’s 2022 Annual General Meeting on Monday evening, we reproduce an article from the publication on the Tiger players (and an official) who received awards at the end of that ’72 season.
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
The Club has much pleasure in recommending vice-captain Kevin Bartlett and committee member Les Flintoff for Life Membership of the Club.
Kevin started with the Tigers in the early 60’s in the Under 17 grade and gained senior selection in 1965. Since then he has won recognition as one of the top rovers in League football, and won the Club Best and Fairest in 1967 and 1968.
Les Flintoff played with the Tigers between 1950-52, prior to accepting a country coaching appointment. In 1964, he returned as a member of the committee and has rendered outstanding service, particularly in the recruitment of players.
TROPHY WINNERS
Trophy Winners
Best and Fairest player (Jack Dyer Medal), “Johnny Walker” Outstanding Service, and Supporters’ Group Special Trophy:
Centre half-forward, Royce Hart, has won the Jack Dyer Medal for the Best and Fairest player, for the second time – he was also successful in 1969 – in addition to the “Johnny Walker” Outstanding Service and Supporters’ Group Special Trophy. Generally regarded as the best centre half-forward in Australia, he has been a magnificent player for the Tigers.
The additional worries of being captain did not dim his brilliance.
SUMMER SESSIONS Celebrate the festive season with an open training session in Cardinia Shire
Second Best and Fairest Player (Jack Titus Medal), Bill Wilson Memorial Shield for Most Determined Player, and Best Player in the Finals Series:
Half-back and winger, Francis Bourke, is the winner of these awards. Francis gave great service as a half-back flanker and during the finals he was transferred to a wing where he played magnificently, winning the trophy for the outstanding player of the series.
Many shrewd judges regard Francis as the greatest wingman of all time, and we readily agree with them. There have been few better players ever to don the famous yellow and black guernsey.
Third Best and Fairest Player (Maurie Fleming Medal)
Former South Australian, Craig McKellar, proved to the football public that the drawn-out clearance wrangle fought by the Tigers was worthwhile when he developed into a dominant ruckman in the latter half of the season. Craig took the League scene by storm when he became the Club’s No. 1 follower.
Fourth Best and Fairest Player
Dick Clay proved his adaptability by transferring from the wing to full back, where he gave the Club many outstanding games. His clearing dashes and magnificent kicking repeatedly swept the Tigers from defence into attack.
Fifth Best and Fairest Player and Outstanding Play Trophy
One of our finest clubmen, Barry Richardson finished fifth and also won the Outstanding Player Trophy, awarded annually by Team Manager Mr. Graeme Richmond. Few players could have given the Tigers a more consistent year even though “Bones” was switched to almost every position on the field. A player of rare determination, his was an outstanding team effort.
Sixth Best and Fairest Player
Rover Kevin Bartlett finished sixth in the Club Best and Fairest, even though he was troubled by many injuries following his return from the All-Australian Championship.
His performance in the Grand Final in winning 33 kicks in a beaten side was memorable.
Special Trophies for Outstanding Services
These will be presented to back pocket player Kevin Sheedy and utility Paul Sproule.
Kevin had a fine year and helped swing many games when switched into attack.
Paul’s performance in playing so well after leaving his former club, Essendon, was a fine achievement.
Best First-year Player (Bill Cosgrove Memorial Trophy)
Local player, Bryan Wood, is the winner of best first-year player. Bryan played many impressive games throughout the year but, unfortunately, tired towards the end, and was not able to retain his position for the finals. However, we are of the firm belief that this 18-year-old lad, who comes from a fanatically orientated Richmond family, has a magnificent future.
Reserve Grade Best and Fairest Player
High-marking Peter Cloke easily won the Best and Fairest player award in the reserve grade, in addition to being runner-up for the VFL Gardiner Medal. Peter has had 27 “day” games with the seniors and we feel sure he will make his presence felt in these ranks in 1973.
Runner-up for the Best and Fairest trophy was defender Ian Miles, whilst centreman Robert Lamb has won the Most Promising Player award.
Under 19 Grade Best and Fairest Player
Fifteen-year-old 6ft. 4in. captain, Emmett Dunne, has won the Under 19 grade Best and Fairest award, following a most consistent season. This player, unless fate plays a sad trick, is headed for a wonderful VFL career.
Under 17 Grade Best and Fairest Player
The Under 17 grade (Essex Heights) Best and Fairest player was centreman Chris Hayes, who was “blooded” in a few games with the Under 19 grade. Chris is only 15 years of age and has played all of his career with Essex Heights.
