The Seven Networks Matthew Richardson has been inducted into Australian Football Hall of Fame
Richmond champion and Seven AFL commentator Matthew Richardson was last night inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame.
‘Richo’ has been a hero for the Tigers winning three All Australian selections, one Best & Fairest and 13 club goalkicking awards.
Seven AFL commentator Bruce McAvaney congratulated Richo on his induction.
“It’s thoroughly deserved as his record speaks for itself. He’s been a larger than life character, the spirit of Richmond and the eye of the tiger for more than a decade. When he almost won a Brownlow late in his career, the reaction in the room was testament to how he’d endeared himself to fans and the football community.”
“As an athlete and a footballer he was simply outstanding, playing in a variety of roles either at full forward, high forward or wing. He wore his heart on his sleeve over the journey and this, along with his extraordinary footballing talents gave us all so much pleasure.”
On the field, Richo was renowned for his amazing athletic capabilities for a power forward and kicked 800 goals in his career, including the most ever by any player at the MCG. His exceptional speed and endurance also helped him to a remarkable third place finish in the 2008 Brownlow as a midfielder.
Fans have loved Richo for his passion, warmth and humour both on and off the field but he also brings a great knowledge and insight into the game that fans love too.
His legend has grown even bigger off the field as part of the Seven’s AFL commentary team and he has cemented his place as one of the most popular figures in the game.
The Tiger legend is a Channel 7 Saturday Night Footy expert commentator alongside BT, Darce and Lingy and is also a regular on the boundary on Friday Night Football.
He was awarded AFL life membership after playing more than 300 games including pre-season and representative footy. The Tiger great also took a total of 2270 marks during his career, the second highest of any player at the time of retirement.
Career Stats
Club: Richmond
Positions: Centre Half Forward, Full Forward, Wing
Debut: 1993
Games: 282
Goals: 800
Recruited: Devonport (TAS)
AFL Awards: All Australian 1996, 1999, 2008
Richmond Awards: Best & Fairest 2007,
Leading Goalkicker 1994, ’96-99, 2001–08
Brownlow votes: 140
