Speaking to ‘Roar Vision’ on his first day at Tigerland, Chaplin said he couldn’t wait for the opportunity to run out regularly at the MCG, in the Yellow and Black colours.
“I’ve only played on there a handful of times. Port Adelaide didn’t get to play there very often,” he said.
“The last time I played there would’ve been the ’07 grand final, so it’s been a long time. I’m really looking forward to getting across to the ‘G and playing in front of 60 or 70,000 fans.
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“It was one of the main drawcards to coming back home.”
Chaplin, a restricted free agent, had his first look at the ME Bank Centre facilities last Friday.
Under the rules of Free Agency, Richmond put an offer to Port Adelaide last Monday, which the Power had three days to respond to.
Nearing the deadline, Port decided not to match the Tigers’ offer, allowing the 26-year-old to sign at Tigerland.
“When I got the phone call to say Port wasn’t going to match the offer it was a big relief. I just can’t wait to get over here and starting a pre-season,” he said.
“It’s a pretty young backline back there, and hopefully I can add that experience to the group.”
Chaplin was also quick to assure Richmond fans that his knee injury will not be a concern, after a meeting with Richmond’s medical staff.
“I’ve talked to the physios and docs about it, and they’re rapt with it. They can’t see why I can’t spend the rest of my career at Richmond,” Chaplin said.
“It’ll put me back a few weeks of pre-season…but I’ll be ready to go for Round 1 next year, and that’s the main thing.”
