In a series focusing on Richmond’s trade/draft history, we look at the three-way trade which landed versatile Fremantle ruckman Troy Simmonds.
Troy Simmonds arrived at Richmond during the AFL’s 2004 trade period, in a three-way deal, which also saw Aaron Fiora depart Tigerland for St Kilda, and Heath Black return to Fremantle, following a stint with the Saints.
Simmonds, had played 64 games for the Dockers from 2002-04 and kicked 59 goals, including 35 in the season before he joined Richmond, predominantly playing centre half-forward.
The 197cm, 99kg big man had started his league career at Melbourne, where he’d played 40 games, including an appearance in the 2000 Grand Final, which the Demons lost to Essendon by 10 goals (Simmonds was carted off on a stretcher that day after being knocked unconscious by an errant hip and shoulder bump from Bomber Michael Long).
Richmond, impressed with Simmonds’ mobility, versatility, and all-round skills set, lured him to Tigerland on an initial five-year contract.
He had a serviceable first season with the Tigers in 2005, winning his fair share of hit-outs in the ruck, possessions around the ground, and kicking 19 goals while spending time up forward.
The following year, Simmonds had what was to be the best season of his league career. He generated considerable drive for the Tiger team in his role as No. 1 ruckman, and capped off his work by finishing the season with 25 goals.
It was an eye-catching year’s effort that earned Simmonds a career-high 11 Brownlow Medal votes and third placing in the Jack Dyer Medal.
In 2007, injury problems, including a life-threatening blood clot in his lung, restricted Simmonds to just 10 games.
The following year, however, Simmonds bounced back in brave, bold style. He won selection in the Victorian side for the special match against the Dream Team, as part of Australian Football’s 150th year celebrations, averaged a career-high 16.7 disposals per game, and finished sixth in Richmond’s Best and Fairest.
Further injuries took their toll on Simmonds after that 2008 season, and he retired from league football in 2010. He had played 93 games, kicked 66 goals, and provided Richmond with good overall value.
Troy Simmonds profile
Born: 13/7/1978
Height: 197cm
Playing weight: 99kg
Richmond trade history: Traded in a three-way deal, with Aaron Fiora going from the Tigers to St Kilda and Heath Black leaving the Saints and joining Fremantle
Guernsey number at Richmond: No. 5
Debut at Richmond: Round 1, 2005 v Geelong, MCG
Games at Richmond (2005-2010): 93
Goals at Richmond: 66
