It was a historic occasion for Richmond’s AFLW team on Thursday night, with the official launch of the Club’s inaugural season.
With 350 people in attendance, AFLW players enjoyed the event with family, friends, club staff, board members and key club supporters.
Held in the Maurice Rioli Room, the Tigers were presented with their 2020 guernseys by players from the Richmond Junior Football Club.
The evening also included a panel discussion led by Akec Makur Chuot featuring Katie Brennan, Grace Campbell, Sabrina Frederick and Cleo Saxon-Jones.
Addressing the crowd, President Peggy O'Neal expressed her excitement for the Club’s next chapter.
“From the first season of the AFLW in 2017, we have wanted a team,” she said.
“We’re more than ready to go and approach this season with anticipation and excitement.
“The women who make up our first team…will be a special chapter in Richmond’s history.”
In coach Tom Hunter’s speech, he said the group is “gearing up towards something pretty special”.
“Whilst Round 1 is the first, I can say with great confidence that it won’t be the last. And it certainly won’t be the sole evening that will define our players, whether playing or not, as footballers or as people,” he said.
“We have an entire season ahead of us. A season that will provide challenges, opportunities but also moments to celebrate.
“We may get all three in the first game, but we won’t be defined by Round 1. What will help to define us will be our ability to fight through the challenges, to play to our strengths both individually and collectively, and celebrate the good stuff.
“And when we finish 2020 and look back smiling, knowing that we’ve had a bit of fun along the way, I ask that our supporters and families join in those moments to celebrate with us.”
Richmond will open its maiden AFLW season against Carlton at Ikon Park on Friday, February 7 from 7.40pm.
