Richmond coach, Damien Hardwick is set to become the Tigers’ longest-serving coach after re-signing with the Club for a further three years, taking his tenure at Tigerland to 12 seasons. 

Hardwick will coach Richmond until at least the end of the 2021 season, and is set to surpass both Tommy Hafey and Jack Dyer’s coaching records of 248 and 222 games, respectively. 

Richmond President, Peggy O’Neal said the Board was extremely pleased to extend Hardwick’s contract ahead of the 2018 home-and-away season.

“Damien has helped our football club to deliver the ultimate success, and we’re excited to continue our journey with him leading the team,” O’Neal said.

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“Our Club has built a strong and united culture, and Damien has been critical to that. He has an incredible connection to his players, is a person of great character and a wonderful coach.  

“Damien is constantly looking at ways to improve himself, and get the best out of his players and coaching group, and we wish them all the best for the upcoming AFL season.”

Hardwick, 45, a premiership player at both Essendon and Port Adelaide, was appointed Richmond’s coach at the end of 2009.

In 2017 he led Richmond to its first premiership in 37 years, and was awarded the AFLCA’s Coach of the Year award.

“I’m incredibly honoured to continue coaching the Richmond Football Club, and have the support of Peggy, Brendon and the Board,” Hardwick said.

“It’s a collective effort that helps deliver success, and I’m fortunate at Richmond to have a great group of players, coaches and staff all working together towards our goal.

“It’s been an exciting journey thus far at Richmond, and both myself, the coaches and players are eager for the challenge that awaits this season.”

In his eight AFL seasons, Hardwick has led the Tigers to four finals series campaigns, including a premiership win, and is currently Richmond’s third longest-serving coach behind Hafey and Dyer, coaching 182 games.