Former Richmond captain and 1980 ruck premiership hero Mark Lee was the special guest presenter of the guernseys to Tiger debutants Shaun Hampson and Matt Thomas in the rooms before last Saturday night’s opening round clash with Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium.
The man known as ‘The General’, spoke with immense pride and passion about the Club he represented in 233 games from 1977-1991.
“Richmond Footy Club’s got a great tradition,” Lee said.
“My introduction to the Richmond Football Club was a long time ago now.
“I was invited down as a 16-year-old, and to walk into the committee room at the Richmond Footy Club, and see all the silverware that was in the cupboard, the Tiger skin, and the legends that were around the Club, was amazing.
“These were guys who went on to be not just legends of the Richmond Footy Club, but legends of the game itself – the likes of Francis Bourke, Kevin Bartlett and Royce Hart. They were still there at the time.
“I think with these two boys today (Hampson and Thomas), it’s a little bit like my time at the Club, where it’s a little bit of luck involved with things, in that you’ve got to be at the right place, at the right time.
“Richmond Footy Club, because of the great things it holds, has always been the right place, but for the last 30-odd years, it hasn’t been the right time.
“I’m sure everyone involved now is of the opinion that we’re on the rise, and these boys tonight – Matt and Shaun – might be just what we need to fill us up . . .
“In my time there (at the Club), Richmond were feared. It was the way they played the game. I know the game has changed considerably since then, but I think there’s still room for a little bit of intimidation . . .
“We need to get back to what made Richmond the great club it is, back in the 60, 70s, and early 80s.
“When you look at the Tiger emblem and then shut your eyes, the vision that comes to your mind is an animal that’s the King of the jungle. It’s strong, it’s bold, it’s fast, it’s courageous, it’s top of the food chain . . .”
