In a special holiday season series, richmondfc.com.au is asking Tiger fans to nominate 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 that have racked up a minimum of 50 games wearing 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 the No. 3 guernsey.
No. 3
Dale Weightman – 256 games, 1979-1993
Brilliant rover, who combined superb skills with plenty of aggression and heaps of courage. Key member of Richmond’s 1980 premiership side, dual Jack Dyer Medallist (1986, 1987), Club captain from 1988-1992, named as second rover in the Tigers’ Team of the Century, and a triple All-Australian representative.
Roger Dean – 237 games, 1959-1973
Had a meteoric rise through the ranks at Richmond, from the fourth to the seniors, all in the one season. Became an inspirational and courageous on-field leader, captaining the Tigers from 1968-1971, including the ’69 premiership. Also was a member of the 1967 flag side. Provided the team with great value in several different positions – back pocket, half-forward and rover. Selected on a half-forward flank in Richmond’s Team of the Century.
Brett Deledio – 232 games, 2005-2015
The No. 1 pick in the AFL’s 2004 National Draft has gone on to carve out an illustrious career at Tigerland in several roles, most recently as a dangerous, high half-forward. Won the AFL’s Rising Star award in his 2005 debut season, is a two-time winner of the Jack Dyer Medal (2008, 2009), and a dual All-Australian representative.
Duncan Kellaway – 170 games, 1994-2004
One of the most courageous players to ever wear the famous Richmond Guernsey. In his defensive role for the Tigers, was frequently assigned much bigger opponents, but, regardless of the magnitude of the challenge, he always responded bravely. Was a constant source of inspiration to his teammates.
Havel Rowe – 124 games, 1948-1957
Played on the wing, in the centre, and as a half-forward throughout his decade-long career at Richmond. Was strong overhead, a reliable kick and had good pace. Won the Tigers’ Best and Fairest award in 1957 and was inducted into the Club’s Hall of Fame in 2015.
Percy Maybury – 102 games, 1912-1919
A centreman/half-forward, renowned for his creative play. Had a good turn of speed and also earned a reputation for his ability to ‘milk’ free kicks. Captained the Tigers in 1917 and was a member of their 1919 Grand Final line-up.
Len Ablett – 56 games, 1939-1943
Was a useful utility player during his five-year career at Richmond. His final game with the Tigers was as 19th man in the thrilling ’43 Grand Final victory over Essendon at Princes Park.
Bill Benton – 56 games, 1928-1932
Had stints in defence and attack throughout his playing days at Punt Road. Was full-back in Richmond’s 1929 Grand Final side, and then kicked 35 goals the following season playing up forward.
