Richmond Football Club is mourning the passing of its National Recruiting Manager, Chris Toce.

Toce has bravely fought a private battle with an aggressive form of cancer in recent months, he passed surrounded by family this morning.

“First and foremost, our thoughts are with Chris’ family, his wife Mel, and two children Sophia and Harry,” Richmond General Manager- Football Talent Blair Hartley said.

“We were so excited to bring Chris to the Club in March, because of the fantastic person he was and his accomplishments in the AFL industry as a recruiter.

“Chris quickly established himself as a key part of our team. His professionalism and commitment to the job was only matched by his warm and easy-going nature that enabled him to quickly build relationships across the entire Club.

“He was a Richmond person and his passion for the Club and our future was evident from day one. We will miss him dearly."

Richmond CEO Shane Dunne added his condolences.

“We are devastated for Chris’ family and friends. Our thoughts are with his wife Mel and their two children Harry and Sophia,” he said.

“We will do everything we can to support them at this incredibly difficult time, and of course into the future.”

Toce worked in the AFL industry for over a decade, spending time at Collingwood (2010-14) and St Kilda (2015-2023) before joining Richmond in March this year.

A renowned talent identifier, Toce stood out across a thorough process when being appointed the Club’s National Recruiting Manager earlier in the year.

Richmond Football Club thanks the media for their respect and privacy throughout recent months.