With the departure of several players from Richmond since the end of the 2018 season, we’ve been taking a look at the history of all the guernsey numbers available at the Club for 2019. The game totals and years listed relate to those played while wearing the specific number, not total Richmond career numbers. We conclude today with the main wearers of the No. 44 Yellow and Black guernsey...
Graeme Bond – 49 games, 24 goals, 1967-1970
Small, lightning fast, determined, versatile player, who was recruited by Richmond from suburban club Burwood United. Major highlight of Bond’s time at Tigerland came in 1969, when he was a member of the Richmond side that defeated arch-rival Carlton in the Grand Final. Selected as 19th man for the premiership-decider, he was called into the action during the last quarter, as a replacement for Eric Moore at full-forward. At the start of the time-on period, with Richmond a couple of goals ahead, he took a mark in the goal-square and kicked truly, ensuring that the ’69 premiership cup would be heading to Punt Road. Was used effectively in a variety of roles throughout his playing career with Richmond, including wing, rover, half-back and half-forward. Utilised his explosive pace to burn off opponents and generate valuable drive for the Tigers.
Nick Daffy – 26 games, 16 goals, 1992-1994
Top junior footballer with North Gambier in SA, who was selected by Richmond with its fourth pick in the 1990 national draft. Spent 1991 playing in the under 19s and reserves, before making his senior league debut early the next season. Initially made a name for himself at the game’s highest level as a medium-sized forward. Won the Tigers’ leading goalkicker award in 1995, when the team made it through to the preliminary final. Further underlined his importance to Richmond’s line-up, when he eventually moved into a midfield role. With his pace, ability to create space, ball-winning ability and long kicking, Daffy became a key member of the Tigers’ midfield. Produced his best season of league football in 1998, winning the Jack Dyer Medal. Backed it up with another strong season in 1999, but a spate of injuries and subsequent form loss, saw him traded to Sydney at the end of 2001.
