Popular Richmond stalwart, Shane Tuck, has explained the reasoning behind his decision to retire from league football at the end of this season, in an exclusive ‘Roar Vision’ interview.
Tuck, who announced his retirement at the Club today, told Tiger great, Matthew Richardson, it’s something he’s been thinking about for quite a while.
“I’ve been contemplating it the last couple of years, just with things happening along the way. But this year, things haven’t really gone to plan,” Tuck said.
“The boys are playing really well, so there’s not really much of a spot left for me.
“After the GWS game (last weekend), the boys had played really well, and I got dropped for that, so I thought it’s probably time to call it quits.
“It’s been on the cards for a long time.”
Tuck has mixed emotions about the decision to put a full stop on his AFL playing career.
“I’ll definitely miss playing on the MCG, and miss hanging out with the boys and all that. They’re just a great bunch of blokes to be around. And, I enjoy training, too. We’ve got a great ground now. I enjoy just running around, getting a sweat up and having a kick,” he said.
“But I’m not going to miss ice baths, and clinics and all that sort of stuff you’ve got to do, like meetings.
“I find it hard to listen all the time. I’m a bit of a daydreamer . . .
Tuck justifiably can be mighty proud of what he’s achieved throughout his time at Tigerland. Seven top-10 finishes in the Club’s prestigious Jack Dyer Medal speaks volumes for his capabilities as a player.
“I feel that I’ve done everything I can,” he said.
“The last four years have been a little bit up and down through whether being selected and stuff like that.
“It’s been a hard time, but I’ve definitely tried my very best and I can leave knowing I’ve done that, so it’s good.”
Before he cleans out his locker at Punt Road, however, Tuck has his sights set on a long-awaited finals appearance.
“I’d love to be part of it and, hopefully, I can get a spot somewhere along the line,” he said.
