Richmond’s prized midfield recruit Jacob Hopper has made a strong return to the playing field from a calf injury that sidelined him for five games.
Hopper was a valuable contributor for the Tigers in his first game back against Brisbane at the Gabba (Round 16) with 22 disposals, six tackles, a team-high two goals, seven score involvements and 384 metres gained.
He followed that up with a first-rate performance in last Thursday night’s victory over Sydney at the MCG – 22 disposals, nine contested possessions, seven clearances, three inside-50s, four rebound-50s, seven score involvements, three tackles and 442 metres gained.
The 26-year-old spoke to Channel Seven in a post-match interview about his recovery from the calf injury.
“It was a bit longer (out of action) than I would have hoped for, but that’s just footy,” Hopper said.
“We felt like we ‘rehabbed’ it really well and I feel really good . . .
“I just want to be part of, hopefully, some more wins.”
Hopper also conveyed how happy he is at Tigerland after a 114-game career with Greater Western Sydney.
“Love it. It’s a great club. So many great people,” he said.
“I think to see what ‘Mini’ (Andrew McQualter) has done after ‘Dimma’ (Damien Hardwick) leaving was just like incredible, the way that we handled it, the way that leadership handled it.
“Mini’s been fantastic, and the boys love him. Everyone’s behind him.
“I think that’s what great clubs are made of.
“In testing moments like that, to stand up the way we have, has been awesome to be a part of.”
Hopper is averaging 22.7 disposals, 9.3 contested possessions, 3.5 marks, 4.7 clearances, 5.3 inside-50s, 5.1 score involvements, 4.1 tackles and 383.5 metres gained per game in his debut season with Richmond.
