Dual Premiership Tiger Expresses Gratitude to Richmond Football Club
In a significant move during the AFL free agency period, papers have been lodged for Jack Graham to move from the Richmond Football Club to the West Coast Eagles as an unrestricted free agent.
Graham, 26, has been a vital part of Richmond since being selected with the 53rd pick in the 2016 AFL Draft. Over eight seasons, he played 131 games and became a two-time premiership player with the Tigers.
The South Australian made an immediate impact by becoming the youngest member of Richmond’s 2017 premiership team, remarkably booting three Grand Final goals in just his fifth AFL game. His dedication was further highlighted in the 2019 preliminary final, where he courageously played out the match with a dislocated shoulder, ruling him out of the following week’s Grand Final. This selfless effort contributed to him winning that year’s prestigious Francis Bourke Award.
Graham added a second premiership medal in 2020 and was runner-up in the 2021 Jack Dyer Medal, solidifying his reputation as one of the club’s standout performers.
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 24: Jack Graham of the Tigers celebrates a goal during the round 24 AFL match between Richmond Tigers and Gold Coast Suns at Melbourne Cricket Ground, on August 24, 2024, in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)
Reflecting on his time at Richmond, Graham expressed deep appreciation:
“I’m just so grateful for the Richmond Football Club for giving me the opportunity eight years ago,” he said. “I have met some amazing people along this journey, and it is tough… but it is something that I thought I needed for myself. A new chapter and a new challenge.”
He acknowledged the mixed emotions surrounding his decision:
“Jordy and I are very excited by that, but at the same time, it is sad to say goodbye to so many good people.”
“(They are) people that have helped me along the way to get where I am today as a player, but more importantly, helped shape me as the person I am today.”
Graham also extended heartfelt thanks to the passionate Richmond supporters:
“Obviously, the Tiger Army, I can’t thank them enough for everything they have done for me and for the Richmond Football Club,” he said. “They show support through the tough times, and the good times. They are very loyal fans, and you can always hear them no matter where you are.
“So, I would love to thank the Tiger Army for everything they have done for me across the last eight years.”
Richmond’s General Manager of Football Talent, Blair Hartley, expressed gratitude for Graham’s contributions:
“We all thank Jack for what he has given to Richmond. He is a player that left nothing out on the field and gave us everything he had in his eight years with us,” he said. “Jack came to the Club with pick 53 in 2016 and leaves with two premierships and played an important role in the Club achieving the ultimate success in 2017 and 2020.
“He has been a great servant to Richmond and should be very proud of all he has achieved, including playing a selfless role during our finals series in 2019. This will never be forgotten.
“We are disappointed to be losing a player like Jack, but as a free agent we understand and respect his decision to seek a fresh start.”
As Graham embarks on a new chapter with the West Coast Eagles, he leaves behind a legacy of dedication, teamwork, and significant achievements at Richmond. Both the club and its supporters will remember his contributions fondly and wish him success in his future endeavors.
Keep up with all the player moves on the Confirmed Trades thread.
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