For lifelong supporter Peter, the Richmond Football Club isn’t just a team.
It’s a family, a legacy, and a tradition that has spanned more than six decades.
And it all started when he was just five-years-old, attending his first game with his dad, decked out in his iconic Tigers gear.
Growing up in Mount Waverley meant that every weekend, rain or shine, was spent traveling to Punt Road Oval, cheering on the Tigers with his dad. They were then joined by his mum and sister, attending games at the MCG.
“We used to stand at the back near the players race while the reserves played,” Peter told Richmond Media.
“We’d climb the fence and run a lap with the players, and I still have an autograph book full of signatures from legends like Jack Dyer."
At this time, Richmond wins were sparse, but the rare victories were celebrated as one Tiger Army.
“After a win, we’d stop by the local milk bar to buy chips, lollies, and soft drinks,” Peter recounted.
“It wasn’t often we won, but when we did, we celebrated.”
Even after all these years, some traditions remain unchanged. For over 50 years, Peter and his family have shared Tim Tams at the footy.
It was something his mum used to bring to Punt Road.
He now carries on the tradition.
“It’s a simple thing, but it’s part of what makes going to the footy so special. It’s something we’ve always done,” Peter said.
Now, more than 60 years later, that tradition is stronger than ever. Four generations of Peter’s family are Richmond fanatics, each passing down the passion for the Club.
“It’s amazing to see my kids, my niece, and even my great-nephews all involved,” he said.
“We sit together in (bay) M50 at the MCG.”
For Peter, being connected to the Richmond Football Club is about more than just football - it’s about a sense of belonging and identity.
“Being in the crowd makes you feel connected; you feel part of the Club,” he said.
“When people walk into our house, they see the big posters from the Premierships we attended — 1967, 1969, 1973, 1974, 2017, 2019, and 2020. Everyone knows they’re stepping into a Richmond household.”
Whilst reflecting on his journey, Peter shared advice for those new members on their own Tiger journey.
"You take the good with the bad," he said.
“We’ve been through tough times, but you just keep going - rain, hail, or shine.”
One of his fondest memories from these challenging years wasn’t about a victory, instead a moment of resilience, when Richmond played Port Adelaide during a hailstorm.
"We were the only ones still sitting there while everyone else had run for cover. We were even on TV for it,” Peter laughed.
"That’s what being a Richmond supporter is about, sticking by your team no matter what.
“They really look after us. The membership team is always helpful, and their communication is top-notch. You feel like you are part of something bigger than just the team.”
And as the years have gone by, he has watched many young stars emerge that have lifted the Club to unexpected heights.
“The depth of talent in this team is amazing. You can see that history is repeating itself with these young guys coming through,” Peter said.
"You see the excitement when new players like Seth Campbell step up, and you know they’re going to be something special. It’s that excitement that keeps you coming back, year after year.
“There’s always something new; something to look forward to.”
And after 67 years of pride and excitement as a Richmond member, Peter would not change a thing.
He knows that this Club isn’t just built on wins or losses.
It is built on the people, family and tradition that is woven in the fabric of Richmond’s existence and passed down through generations.
"It’s been a long road, but I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve seen the Tigers through thick and thin, and I’ll keep supporting them for as long as I can,” Peter said.
Join Peter and become a Richmond Member, today.
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