In the lead-up to 2011 Trade Week, richmondfc.com.au chatted with Richmond Opposition and List Analyst, Blair Hartley, to get his view on the upcoming exchange period.

What is the Club’s philosophy going into trade week?
As we have always done, we’ll look to add to our playing list where possible, and to strengthen our position in the upcoming National Draft.  We also think it’s important that when players come into the Club, they have a strong character, especially when you’re looking to improve your list immediately.

How much preparation goes into it during the year?
My role all year is to constantly rate all players across the competition.  Working with Francis Jackson and the recruiting team, we monitor players’ performance at AFL and state league level.

I also prepare reports on Richmond’s opposition during the season, which helps me keep an eye on players on each team’s list. I am also continuously in contact with other clubs’ list management staff throughout the year, so we are well planned heading into trade week.

There are plenty of people who assist in the planning for trade week, including our recruiting team, the coaching staff and other members of the football department.

What actually happens in trade week?
The first day of trade week is when all the clubs meet at Etihad Stadium to discuss potential trade opportunities.  We meet each club for 15 minutes and listen to what they have to say. 

We have met with most of the clubs before the exchange period, so we know where we stand heading into the week.

Throughout the rest of the week, we stay in close contact with other clubs we are interested in securing a trade with.  The phone charger definitely gets a good workout! On deadline day, we meet again at Etihad Stadium to finish off any deals we’ve been working on.

How complicated can it be to secure a trade?
There are so many things involved in trading a player.  We have to take into account the needs of both clubs, the players’ managers, whether there is an existing contract, which draft picks are available.  Naturally, all clubs are looking to get the best outcome for their club, which can extend the amount of time it takes to secure a trade.  There are always going to be rumors about potential trades, but unless you hear confirmation from a club source, it’s hard to substantiate them.

How important is trade week?
It’s crucial that we make the right decisions which will assist Richmond at the National Draft, and on the field in the coming years.  We’re confident we have done the planning, and are in a strong position to achieve what we set out to.