Knights created history today (Monday, October 1) by becoming the first player to change clubs under the AFL’s new free agency system, departing the Adelaide Crows to join Richmond.
The 26-year-old veteran of 96 league games since debuting in 2005, is buoyant with his decision to return to his native Victoria and wear the famous Yellow and Black colors.
“The last week has been quite nerve-wracking, but to finally get pen to paper, and join this fantastic club, is an honour,” Knights told ‘Roar Vision’.
“I spent eight years with the Adelaide Football Club, which has been fantastic to me. Your career is a short one and you just have to make the most of it . . . Richmond gave me that opportunity, so I’m just delighted to be here.”
Knights managed just 26 games in the last three years, after a breakout 2009 season with the Crows, where he kicked 43 goals in 20 appearances.
His league career has been derailed by injury problems, but he’s confident all that’s behind him, as he prepares to start his journey at Tigerland.
“It’s exciting, because now my body is in pretty good stead, so I get to have a full pre-season,” he said.
“I’m really motivated and enthusiastic about training and playing . . . I’m really looking forward to it and, hopefully, I’ve got a bit to give.”
Knights is genuinely excited about slotting into a Tiger team on the rise.
“I’ve been watching Richmond closely this year. A good friend of mine, Ivan (Maric), who I lived with for six years came across, so I’ve been following the progress and the form,” Knights said.
“He played some really good football and a lot of players have had really good seasons, Ivan included.
“Hopefully, if I can be involved in that, and be a part of that, we can have some success.”
Another string to Knights’ bow is his versatility. At 184cm and 87kg, he is capable of kicking goals as a forward and picking up plenty of possessions while rotating through the midfield.
Right now, however, he’s not fussed what plans Tiger coach Damien Hardwick may have in store for him . . .
“High-half forward is a position I’ve played a lot of my AFL career, but anywhere on the ground that the coach wants me to play, I’ll just make sure I play my role for the Club,” he said.
