One of the game’s all-time greats, Ian Stewart, sent a stirring message to Richmond’s current playing group at the Club’s gala Hall of Fame function last Saturday night.

Stewart, one of four new Tiger Hall of Fame inductees (along with Tom O’Halloran, Wayne Walsh and Wayne Campbell) spoke passionately about Richmond, where he won his third Brownlow Medal, in his 1971 debut season with the Club, and was a member of the 1973 premiership side.

 “If I can say to the players . . . and it’s very hard to put 20-30 years on top of what you’re doing now, but you will never, ever be at a better club, or be surrounded by better people, no matter what football club you go to,” Stewart said.

“It’s hard for you to appreciate it and treasure it, but believe me, I’ve been at four (league) clubs – three for some time – and this club and their supporters are special, and the players are special . . .”

“It’s fantastic to see Richmond roaring again.”