In a special holiday season series, richmondfc.com.au is asking Tiger fans to select the best player to have worn each of the most significant guernsey numbers in the Club’s history. To assist in your quest, we have profiled those players who have racked up a minimum of 50 games in the number. The game totals and years listed relate to those played while wearing the specific number, not total Richmond career numbers. Today, we focus on No. 11.
No. 11
Joel Bowden – 265 games, 1996-2009
The son of 1969 Richmond premiership player Mike Bowden carved out a fine, 14-season career at Tigerland, overcoming initial severe injury problems with his shoulder. Was an extremely talented player, who excelled in a variety of on-field roles for the Tigers. Renowned for his superb left-foot kicking skills and clever reading of the play. Back-to-back winner of the Jack Dyer Medal in 2004-2005 and an All-Australian representative in 2005-2006.
Bert Foster – 133 games, 1928-1936
Powerfully-built ruckman, who put his strength to good use in one-on-one contests with opponents. His kicking and marking skills were first-rate, and he was quite capable at ground level. Was a member of Richmond’s 1934 premiership side, as well as the 1928, 1931 and 1933 Grand Final line-ups.
Tom Simpson – 126 games, 1956-1963
A fast, fearless and scrupulously fair player, who started off with the Tigers as a wingman, but late in his league career had success in a back pocket. Finished runner-up in the Club’s Best and Fairest award in 1959 and third in 1958. Also was a member of Richmond’s only night premiership side in 1962.
Bruce Monteath – 118 games, 1975-1980
Talented half-forward/ruck-rover, who walked straight into a powerful Tigers’ team that had just won back-to-back premierships in 1973-1974, after being recruited from WAFL club South Fremantle, where he had made his senior debut at just 16 years of age. Won Richmond’s leading goalkicker award in 1978, with 55 goals, and then went on to captain the Club in its 1980 premiership year. Struggled with injuries during the latter stages of that season and spent most of the Grand Final against Collingwood on the interchange bench.
Charlie Priestley – 109 games, 1938-1947
Versatile player, who possessed enormous courage. Constantly put his body on the line for the Tigers and was greatly respected by teammates. Was a member of the Club’s 1944 Grand Final side and a valuable contributor to the Yellow and Black cause right throughout his league career.
Syd Reeves – 93 games, 1912-1919
Courageous centreman, who was single-minded in his attempts to win the ball. Also spent some time in the back pocket during his career at Richmond. Won the Tigers’ Best and Fairest in 1914 and was a member of the 1919 Grand Final side.
Mel Morris – 89 games, 1921-1926
Skilful, speedy centreman/half-forward, who was a member of Richmond’s 1921 premiership side in his debut season of league football. Won the Club’s Best and Fairest in 1922 and the Tigers’ leading goalkicker award in 1924 and 1925.
Jake Batchelor – 59 games, 2012-2015
The versatile left-foot defender had the best season of his five-year league career with the Tigers in 2015. Played all 23 games and was an integral member of a rock-solid Richmond backline. Renowned for his strong intercept marking, and is continuing to improve his ground-level work.
Michael Bowden – 59 games, 1967-1971
A ruck-rover, who was noted for his ball-winning skills and intelligent use of handball. Was a valuable member of Richmond’s 1969 premiership side due to his capacity to bring teammates into the game through creative play.
