One-Eyed Richmond Forum
Football => Richmond Rant => Topic started by: one-eyed on December 15, 2009, 11:32:58 AM
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Welcome Relton :)
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23 yoa
175 cms
8)
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23 yoa
175 cms
8)
A real talent despite his size and age. I saw him at training and he is a ready made player. Only thing holding him back is his fitness levels but he stood out with his skills and awareness. A quality player in the making.
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Perfect for Rookie nice Diamond in the rough possibly.
:thumbsup :thumbsup :thumbsup
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2009 Rookie Draft - Relton Roberts (Pick 38)
richmondfc.com.au
(http://www.richmondfc.com.au/portals/0/richmond_docs/roberts%20thumb.jpg)
DOB: 1/03/86
Height: 176cm
Weight: 78kg
Club: Katherine, Wanderers-NTFL, NT Thunder-QAFL
Video: http://bigpondvideo.com/AFL/230216
What the recruiters say:
Relton has been a dynamic midfielder/forward in the Northern Territory Football leagues for a number of years and this year he was a member of the inaugural NT Thunder senior team in the QAFL.
Relton followed the junior pathway of playing for the NT Thunder U18 team in the national championships for a number of years before plying his trade with the Arnhem Crows in the Katherine Football competition in 2009. He also had a taste of Victorian country football in the Goulburn Valley in 2008 and was a valued member of the Wanderers Football Club for the NTFL season of 2009/10.
Relton is a tremendously balanced kicker of the football on both sides of his body and his bullet like passing inside the forward 50 is one of his great assets. He also possesses a great turn of speed when playing forward to blow away his opponents that has seen him dubbed by his Wanderers team mates and opponents’ as the “Barunga Bullet”- after the small community of Barunga that he hails from.
In round 4 of the NTFL, Relton led Wanderers to a 22 point win over Waratahs when he turned on his speed and goal kicking prowess with a 5 goal-best on ground performance playing as a centre man and resting forward. Due to work commitments Relton was restricted to 3 games with the NT Thunder in the QAFL in 2009 but impressed with a 3 goal haul against the Brisbane Lions reserves in round 2.
Relton will add further skill and goal kicking power as a small forward to the clubs list. Reltons’ super kicking ability combined with pace and lateral movement will provide great excitement for the club going forward.
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Cool nickname :)
From: NT boys get their shot at AFL dream
Grey Morris
December 15th, 2009
Roberts made his name as a goalkicking half-forward and midfielder with NTFL club Wanderers.
Known as the Barunga Bullet, Roberts was the fourth Wanderers players recruited by AFL clubs during the draft period, a record for any Territory club since the draft system started in 1986.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/12/15/109561_ntsport.html
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The Barunga Bullet! awesome! :thumbsup
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Damn I'm excited! :thumbsup :thumbsup
Get him fit, throw him into the Nab Cup and let him rip his magic. Maybe he will be our next Maurice Rioli with the bullet passes, evasive ability and uncanny goal sense. :pray :pray
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If fit, will play all 22 games next year ;)
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Barunga Bullet's a Tiger
Grey Morris
December 16th, 2009
(http://www.ntnews.com.au/images/uploadedfiles/editorial/pictures/2009/12/15/RELTON_SIDE_IMAGE_300PX_KJ050160_117945.JPG)
RELTON Roberts' life changed yesterday morning when he officially became an AFL Tiger.
The "Barunga Bullet" was told by Richmond earlier this week it would pick him up in the rookie draft.
And the Tigers kept their word, drafting the 23-year-old as their third pick at No. 38.
A former Thunder player at under-18 and senior level (three games), Roberts became a cult figure at Katherine club Arnhem Crows.
He starred in Victoria's strong Goulburn Valley league in 2008 and won Wanderers' best and fairest award in the NTFL season when the Eagles went all the way to the grand final.
The kid from Barunga will train with Richmond as a listed rookie player at Monash University in Melbourne this morning.
"I'm rapt, it's changed my life to be able to train and play at an AFL club," Roberts told the Northern Territory News last night.
"They told me they would pick me up as a rookie and they followed it up, I feel pretty good right now."
Roberts wants to organise a place to stay and get used to life in Melbourne before bringing his family down from Barunga.
"It's a big step and I want to do it right.
"My other aim is to play alongside Richard Tambling and Troy Taylor in a league match and make it three Territorians in a Richmond jumper."
Essentially a running half-forward, Roberts can play as a lead-up forward or through the midfield where his pace and evasive skills are big assets.
His coach at Wanderers, Paul Motlop, has described him as one of the best players he has seen at NTFL level.
"Relton can play in the AFL next season, he has got skills on both sides of his body," Motlop said.
"It's up to the clubs he plays against to decide what side he is better at."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/12/16/109621_ntsport.html
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we could do with a "cult" figure the fans will love him
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A younger upgrade on Rodan with good knees.
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Sounds like he has a great attitude. Love to see him get his wish to get on the park with Tambo and Taylor at the same time and tear it up. :thumbsup
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A younger upgrade on Rodan with good knees.
that has good decision making and disposal :thumbsup
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A younger upgrade on Rodan with good knees.
that has good decision making and disposal :thumbsup
In other words no real comparison to Rodan at all! :rollin
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From: abc.net.au
By Aislin O'Connor
Relton Roberts is leaving the Wanderers to play for Richmond.
The 23-year-old star says Richmond recruiters flew him down to Melbourne last week and put him through a week of intensive training.
"My first few days were really hard hey," he said.
"I was puffing and huffing, I was just like I want to quit, but I just stood out and said, 'I'm not going to quit, I'm just going to put my head down and keep digging'."
His coach, Paul Motlop, says the club is losing one of its best.
"He's the club best and fairest, club champion of last year and he certainly will be missed from the club," he said.
"But, look, we're all happy for him and we expected him to be picked up in the draft."
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/12/16/2773299.htm?site=darwin
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"I was puffing and huffing, I was just like I want to quit, but I just stood out and said, 'I'm not going to quit, I'm just going to put my head down and keep digging'."
Thats the part I like. doing it real tuff but wants to dig deep and keep going. That is the sort of attitude that hopefully can make this bloke an AFL footballer.
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HF: Nahas - Reiwoldt - Relton
FF: Post - Griffths - Morton
:cheers
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Pretty impressive highlights package. Let's hope he works harder than Clayton Collard.
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HF: Nahas - Reiwoldt - Relton
FF: Post - Griffths - Morton
:cheers
Only one of these players had played a game for the Tigers 2 years ago. Love the idea of such a radical change. Not sure if this is the ideal line up but the change is needed
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We're going to have a few indigenous boys in the dreamtime game.
Last year it was only Tambling and Essendon had about 1/3 of their team.
Now we potentially have Tambling, Taylor, Roberts and Gilligan.
I wonder if the club are conscious of keeping a few aboriginal lads on the team given that the Dreamtime game is now part of our club's identity and we have the new institute opening up?
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Pretty impressive highlights package. Let's hope he works harder than Clayton Collard.
He's older than Collard so you'd hope more responible. But it'll be a bit of a change for him coming down to Melbourne. In the highlights package it really looked like he could kick which is a tick for Hardwicks recruiting.
Welcome aboard and I hope he makes good and feels at home.
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Going by the way he kicks I like Relton alot.
His kicks look like bullets. Long, flat tracker bullets
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Roberts wants to be known as the "Ngandi Storm"
He's no bullet, he's the Ngandi Storm
Grey Morris
NT News
December 23rd, 2009
RICHMOND recruit Relton Roberts has discarded the Barunga Bullet tag in favour of the "Ngandi Storm".
The 23-year-old was dubbed the Barunga Bullet by NT News sportswriters because of his express pace and strong links with the Katherine community.
But he wants to establish a bigger connection with his family's country at Ngukurr, 200km to the east of Barunga.
"That's my tribe, where my grandmother and her family comes from," Roberts said.
"So I'm now the Ngandi Storm, in respect for my people from Ngukurr in the Roper River country."
Roberts (pictured) was recruited by Richmond at last week's AFL rookie draft when the Tigers grabbed him at pick No. 38.
The first few days as a Tiger were real eye openers for the quietly spoken former Eagle.
"It was good meeting the people but I found the training hard when I first got there," he said.
"In the AFL you train like you play - flat out - so it took a bit of getting used to.
"But now I've made some changes it's a lot easier. I think I can keep up with the rest of the players now."
Roberts is yet to meet Richmond's big recruit from last season, former West Coast premiership player and Brownlow medallist Ben Cousins.
But he has spoken to another Territory Tiger, former Southern Districts utility and Jabiru-born Richard Tambling.
"Ben Cousins is still in Perth so we haven't seen him at training," he said.
"But Richard gave me a few tips on what it's like in the AFL.
"And coach (Damien) Hardwick is a good bloke. He's outlined a few programs and gameplans that I'll be involved with."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2009/12/23/111361_ntsport.html
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these aboriginal boys need to lose this appetite for dodgy nicnames and just effen play the game.
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these aboriginal boys need to lose this appetite for dodgy nicnames and just effen play the game.
ahaha you're not a romantic are you Ramps? I tend to agree though, perhaps worry bout the nickname till after you have at least played a game or two! Even if Ngandi Storm is a ripper!
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Lol I agree CV its some harmless PR for the tigers that really wont have many interesting stories over the next season or two except up and coming players.
But agree lets kick 1 or 2 goals first before we label any nicknames lol.
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these aboriginal boys need to lose this appetite for dodgy nicnames and just effen play the game.
ahaha you're not a romantic are you Ramps? I tend to agree though, perhaps worry bout the nickname till after you have at least played a game or two! Even if Ngandi Storm is a ripper!
Although I agree with the sentiment of 'earning your stripes', in all fairness this sort of stuff is driven in part by a need to promote the benefits of moving forward and getting on with your life to an all too large element of the local youth. You would find that the impetus for the story was not the work of the player but the work of a media trying to push the feel good line. And imho, whatever it takes.
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Ah the boy's having a bit of fun and he's proud of where he's come from. He must be feeling 1 million bucks at the moment. Apart from that sometimes a bit of ego and self confidence is not a bad thing, depends on the player.
If he wants to be the "Ngandi Storm" then I say let it rain!! ;D
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Tambling gives Roberts nod of approval
Grey Morris
January 14th, 2010
RICHARD Tambling has welcomed Territory recruits Relton Roberts and Troy Taylor to the AFL Tigers' den.
The Territory trio were part of the Richmond senior list that trained at full pace at Punt Road in Melbourne yesterday.
"It's good to get a couple more Territory boys in a Richmond jumper," Tambling told the Northern Territory News.
"Relton's already a standout at training with his silky skills and Troy has shown enough to suggest he can play at the top level.
"I'd say Relton has to get his fitness up to the next level, but I'm sure he'll play AFL footy one day if he ticks all the right boxes.
"The club is being a bit careful with Troy because of his sore groins but his workrate will increase as his fitness gets better."
Tambling is on the eve of his sixth AFL season after the Tigers picked him at No. 4 in the 2004 national draft.
A former Thunder under-18 captain, 23-year-old Tambling has kicked 47 goals in his 66-game career in a black and gold jumper.
A father twice over, the Jabiru-born on-baller is looking forward to the 2010 season under new coach Damien Hardwick.
"There's a great feeling at the club with everything new and exciting," he said.
"We've got a NAB Cup game in a month (against Hawthorn) before we play Carlton in Round 1 (March 25), so there is a lot of planning and training to be done yet."
Tambling said former West Coast midfielder Ben Cousins and 2005 Brownlow medallist was in good shape.
"Benny's pretty good, he knows what he has to do in the pre-season and it's important he's ready for the season proper.
"He'll push his body to last the season and we're all confident he'll have a big one this year."
Tambling has also noted Richmond is due to play a premiership match in Darwin in 2011.
"Getting to play in a Richmond jumper in front of my extended family and friends at TIO Stadium, is there nothing better? Only my grandma, uncle and aunty have seen me play for Richmond, so it will be interesting to see the rest of my relations making up half of the crowd at TIO Stadium."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/01/14/115471_ntsport.html
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byo fan club :clapping
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ummm....blingers has played more than 66 games...somewhere around 95 i think....
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ummm....blingers has played more than 66 games...somewhere around 95 i think....
You're right, he's only just behind Lids who has already brought up the ton. Sometimes I think we'd all stay more accurately and better informed if we just didn't read the paper, or listen to or watch the news. :-\
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You're right, he's only just behind Lids who has already brought up the ton. Sometimes I think we'd all stay more accurately and better informed if we just didn't read the paper, or listen to or watch the news. :-\
Just get our facts from OER? ;)
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You're right, he's only just behind Lids who has already brought up the ton. Sometimes I think we'd all stay more accurately and better informed if we just didn't read the paper, or listen to or watch the news. :-\
Just get our facts from OER? ;)
Now you're just being silly. ;D
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Great to see Tambling is there to support the new Aboriginal kids coming through the club, I had read on another site that there were rumors that the players including Tambling were, well lets just say not happy with their work rate, so this is good news.
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I couldn't find this on the net so I scanned it in.....
Rioli helps Roberts settle in Melbourne
By Grey Morris
NT News
Thu 11 Feb 2010, Page 40
FORMER Essendon goalkicker Dean Rioli has taken Richmond recruit Relton Roberts under his wing.
A big supporter of Territory footballers making their way in the AFL, Rioli has provided Ngukurr-born Roberts with all the comforts of home in his first season in the ``Big Show''.
``I probably wouldn't waste my time if I didn't think Relton had what it takes to make it at AFL level,'' he said.
``I've seen him play for Wanderers up there (in Darwin) and I think he's going to be an exciting talent for the AFL.
``My wife (Samantha) and I have put our hands up to say we'll look after him this season.''
Rioli said the former NTFL Eagle was being shunted from house to house in his first season since being plucked from the Eagle's nest at pick No. 38 in the 2009 AFL Rookie Draft.
``He's been staying with (senior coach) Damien Hardwick, then Richard Tambling and the next day another assistant coach.
``For his and Richmond's sake he needs to be settled to perform at his best.
`
`My wife and I had a serious chat and decided we want to do what we can from our end to give him that stable lifestyle away from the club.
``That will show Richmond it wasn't a waste of time taking him.''
Rioli met with Roberts and Tiger officials last week and was impressed with the former Eagle's physical progress.
``He's put on some muscle and some weight and looks like he'll be right to go in two or three weeks,'' he said.
``They're pretty happy with him already, he's shown them enough.''
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Let's hope Relton doesn't go on to the Rioli diet!!
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That's pretty awesome of the Rioli clan to put their hand up like that. He is still a young bloke straight out of the bush so he is gonna be a bit lost at sea for a while down here. :thumbsup
And what Wayne said LOL
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What this shows is the club still has a long way to go before they can claim they have player welfare/management down pat. To take a bloke from an isolated NT community and move him to Melbourne without any living arrangements organised is very unprofessional.
Troy taylor was originally by himself in Essendon ( dont know about now) which again is not an ideal situation for a young bloke shipped a long way from home, family and friends.
These are the sort of things they have to get right.
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It was one thing that Miller used to get right.
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I couldn't find this on the net so I scanned it in.....
It's here one-eyed
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/02/11/123021_ntsport.html
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OE, if you couldn't find this on the net, how did you find an article from the NT News so early?
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Troy taylor was originally by himself in Essendon ( dont know about now) which again is not an ideal situation for a young bloke shipped a long way from home, family and friends.
He is living with a host family
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Is the host family in Essendon, near Windy Hill, or was that just a temp measure?
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Is the host family in Essendon, near Windy Hill, or was that just a temp measure?
No idea where the host family lives.
Chutney didn't say and I didn't ask ;D
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Is the host family in Essendon, near Windy Hill, or was that just a temp measure?
No idea where the host family lives.
Chutney didn't say and I didn't ask ;D
and a good thing too...
too much Chutney can't be good for the system.
:rollin
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Relton eyes Tiger debut
Grey Morris
NT News
February 13th, 2010
RICHMOND'S Top End recruit Relton Roberts has his eyes firmly set on Round 2 of the NAB Cup competition.
If the Tigers can beat Hawthorn in Tasmania tonight, the "Ngandi Storm" will make his debut as a Tiger against the winner of tomorrow's Western Bulldogs-Brisbane clash in Canberra.
The former Wanderers goalkicker narrowly missed a berth in tonight's side. Originally named in a 29-man squad, he was one of three players cut from the team. The NAB Cup allows for six players on the interchange bench and two additional substitutes.
``I'll have to wait another couple of weeks but I'm happy with that,'' he said. ``I'm pretty excited about playing in the NAB Cup, even if I have to wait for it.''
Roberts has made Punt Road his new home, with fitness and learning from the club's experienced players his main priority.
Now living with former Essendon goalkicker Dean Rioli, a contented Roberts is ready to pull on the black and gold jumper on matchdays.
``I've met Ben Cousins and had a talk to him about the AFL and what's required to make it,'' he said.
``Ben's a good bloke who leads by example, he's a role model for the new players around the club with his work ethic as well.''
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/02/13/123691_ntsport.html
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Ngandi Storm ... ;D you gotta stuffen kidding me. He hasnt played a game. I reiterate, these aboriginal lads need to give up the dodgy nicknames and the turtle meat and just play. When he shows us he can play then he can call himself whatever he likes. I mean fair dinkum, Maurice Rioli earnt Mr Magic ... but this new generation is out of control with the marketing hype.
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Ngandi Storm ... ;D you gotta effen kidding me. He hasnt played a game. I reiterate, these aboriginal lads need to give up the dodgy nicknames and the turtle meat and just play. When he shows us he can play then he can call himself whatever he likes. I mean fair dinkum, Maurice Rioli earnt Mr Magic ... but this new generation is out of control with the marketing hype.
I was going to post this comment Ramps: "Pretty sure the media gave him this one Ramps, not the kids fault." and quote this article from the RFC site posted earlier in this thread:
"He also possesses a great turn of speed when playing forward to blow away his opponents that has seen him dubbed by his Wanderers team mates and opponents’ as the “Barunga Bullet”- after the small community of Barunga that he hails from."
Then..................I kept reading the posts and found this from a NT News article quoted later in the thread:
"RICHMOND recruit Relton Roberts has discarded the Barunga Bullet tag in favour of the "Ngandi Storm".
The 23-year-old was dubbed the Barunga Bullet by NT News sportswriters because of his express pace and strong links with the Katherine community.
But he wants to establish a bigger connection with his family's country at Ngukurr, 200km to the east of Barunga.
"That's my tribe, where my grandmother and her family comes from," Roberts said."
"So I'm now the Ngandi Storm, in respect for my people from Ngukurr in the Roper River country."
Doh!! :-[
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I really hope this kid can get fit, at 23 he would be an asset to our side , he has the size and smarts to do what it takes, he could be the find of the year.
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Relton eyes Tiger debut
Grey Morris
Now living with former Essendon goalkicker Dean Rioli, a contented Roberts is ready to pull on the black and gold jumper on matchdays.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/02/13/123691_ntsport.html
I thought he was meant to be improving his fitness and losing some weight. :lol
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All he did was change the nickname given to him by others to truly reflect where he comes from. I wouldnt read too much into it besides a bit of cultural pride.
Besides, as Skyhooks told us, nothing wrong with a bit of ego :)
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now that he has strutted his stuff lets make the name official "Ngandi Storm"
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now that he has strutted his stuff lets make the name official "Ngandi Storm"
It's a bit of a mouthful to sing out when he gets the ball. Needs a slogan to go with it. Easier to just yell out Relts. They called him 'bullet' on the K-Rock commentary.
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Scooby should be his nickname.
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As much as I reckon this kid could be a star lets not make a Ngandi storm in a tea cup out of him just yet.... ;D
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a poster on BF claims the herald scum has reported that Roberts has returned home and may not return.
Theres nothing online - anyone able to shed light on this?
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a poster on BF claims the herald scum has reported that Roberts has returned home and may not return.
Theres nothing online - anyone able to shed light on this?
The story is on the Richmond Website al!
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a poster on BF claims the herald scum has reported that Roberts has returned home and may not return.
Theres nothing online - anyone able to shed light on this?
Roberts returns to the Territory
Richmond recruit Relton Roberts has returned home to the Northern Territory for an indefinite period.
“Relton has returned home to be with his family,” Richmond General Manager of Football Craig Cameron said.
“Relton has found the relocation to Melbourne difficult and both he and the Club felt he needed some time away to consider if he wants to pursue a football career.”
Roberts has played two games for the Tigers this season - the season opener against Carlton and the Round 3 loss to Sydney.
http://www.richmondfc.com.au/tabid/6301/default.aspx?newsid=97727
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
It's not like he was pick 8, he was a 3rd round rookie pick, so he was essentially Pick 119
Not sure why you find the need to rip into him, you must have issues
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
It's not like he was pick 8, he was a 3rd round rookie pick, so he was essentially Pick 119
Not sure why you find the need to rip into him, you must have issues
no issues here but he wasnt committed to the cause so stuff him.
i dont buy "its not as if he was pick 8" because we could've missed out on another Nason or Astbury but instead we took a chance on a dud who was overweight and not committed to our football club so you know what stuff him.
Plenty more where that came from.
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
Again Daniel the word is riddance not riddons.
FFS are you not capable of learning something so simple?
:wallywink
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no big loss player wise
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a poster on BF claims the herald scum has reported that Roberts has returned home and may not return.
Theres nothing online - anyone able to shed light on this?
Roberts returns to the Territory
Richmond recruit Relton Roberts has returned home to the Northern Territory for an indefinite period.
“Relton has returned home to be with his family,” Richmond General Manager of Football Craig Cameron said.
“Relton has found the relocation to Melbourne difficult and both he and the Club felt he needed some time away to consider if he wants to pursue a football career.”
Roberts has played two games for the Tigers this season - the season opener against Carlton and the Round 3 loss to Sydney.
http://www.richmondfc.com.au/tabid/6301/default.aspx?newsid=97727
:-\
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Cheers Mopsy & Wayne
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
Again Daniel the word is riddance not riddons.
FFS are you not capable of learning something so simple?
:wallywink
so sorry 1965 was i being rude?
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
daniel, I have no problem with you saying he can go but pathetic name calling doesn't help your argument (and I know you don't care)
no issues here but he wasnt committed to the cause so stuff him.
i dont buy "its not as if he was pick 8" because we could've missed out on another Nason or Astbury but instead we took a chance on a dud who was overweight and not committed to our football club so you know what eff him.
Plenty more where that came from.
But I am interested to know where exactly in the articke does it actually say he wasnt' committed to the cuase as you say.
There is a massive difference between finding it difficult to settling into Melb and not being committed IMHO
You & I have no idea why he has struggled with the relocation thing. All we know is he came from a community environment to the 2nd largest city in the country and I don't think there can be an dispute that some poeple find it harder than others.
As for it being a wasted pick? How can it be he was a rookie for crying out loud.
This what the rookie system is all about trying blokes who you aren't prepared to commit the standard 2 years to via the National draft.
If it had worked out everyone would saying how great it is, it hasn't and it hasn't cost us anything so it hasn't hurt us at all.
I think he can be put back on the rookie list now and we can promote someone else - so it may just turn out to be a win
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It seemed an extremely speculative pick from the start, even if it was a lowly rookie draft pick.
Is there a pressure for us to draft indigenous kids because of the dreamtime game and the Indigenous Football & Training Institute going in @ Punt Rd?
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It seemed an extremely speculative pick from the start, even if it was a lowly rookie draft pick.
Is there a pressure for us to draft indigenous kids because of the dreamtime game and the Indigenous Football & Training Institute going in @ Punt Rd?
I would doubt there would be external pressure for us to draft indigenous players but maybe a little internal pressure but i am only speculating! With a lack of young talent available to draft over the last and upcoming years then picks like RR have been made when otherwise we would not have!
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Who's to say he won't be back? He might go home and reassess his life in the calm environment of home and rethink the opportunity senior AFL football presents. It might be all he needs to re-evaluate and re-focus. Never say never.
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Agree with Smokey. Patience needed here. Club made right move in allowing him to go home. The door is still open
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Nothing to get our knickers in a knot about.
This guy is exactly who we should have been using the rookie draft for - he clearly had a lot of footy ability and given time, fitness and development would have been a regular in the seniors. And there didn't appear to be any red flags off-field a la TroyTaylor or attitude issues. So it wasn't a dumb pick by any stretch of the imagination.
But you just can't pluck indigenous kids out of the bush and expect them all to settle seamlessly into the big smoke. And the life of an AFL professional isn't for everyone either - very grinding and tiresome on the body. It doesn't matter what kind of testing or research you do - some of these things can't be found out until he's living the life of an AFL player and living in Melbourne.
Some guys will come good, others won't - for whatever reason. But this is exactly the kind of player we punt on in the rookie draft in my book.
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Relton will come good! :cheers
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aw cmon people hes 24 ffs even for a mature rookie this is stretching it. especially for a small.whats that saying old phantom always espouses. oh yeah smalls by 20 mediums by 22 and talls by 24.
roberts has been in clubs mind before we took him. he has been overlooked by all clubs for good reasons. he was always very high risk.
he just doesnt have the drive. theres been plenty like him.
hes probably got more skills than other smalls we have like tambling nason king hicks nahas gilligan foley and white yet lacks in other critical aspects. we are not wanting for smalls albeit most of our smalls are not the most skilled group.
to me the rookie draft is for taking blokes like dave gourdis still young has some super attributes and a few that need work plus he fills an area or need. majak daw is another like gourdis. imo we failed with our two mature rookies polak and roberts there were and still are better credentialled senior players running around in other leagues. it was always on the cards that both would fail.
i also believe they made a massive mistake in promoting such an unfit player to the list proper when someone like gourdis performed really well preseason and early in the yr.
but hey so far in the main those in charge have done what needs to be done they will get a few things wrong as they go.
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At 24 he is pretty old. But I reckon we're going to see a bit more of that over the next couple of years.
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Relton needs to commit and get himself fit to make it, his skills and pace are amazing.
If he done a full pre-season and got his weight/diet right he would be a gun.
He blows up too easy and is no where near conditioned enough for AFL footy.
I hope Relts does come back and give it his best shot.
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goodbye good riddons. he can go back up north and slam on another 20kgs the fat prick and never come back.
wasted pick
daniel, I have no problem with you saying he can go but pathetic name calling doesn't help your argument (and I know you don't care)
no issues here but he wasnt committed to the cause so stuff him.
i dont buy "its not as if he was pick 8" because we could've missed out on another Nason or Astbury but instead we took a chance on a dud who was overweight and not committed to our football club so you know what eff him.
Plenty more where that came from.
But I am interested to know where exactly in the articke does it actually say he wasnt' committed to the cuase as you say.
There is a massive difference between finding it difficult to settling into Melb and not being committed IMHO
You & I have no idea why he has struggled with the relocation thing. All we know is he came from a community environment to the 2nd largest city in the country and I don't think there can be an dispute that some poeple find it harder than others.
As for it being a wasted pick? How can it be he was a rookie for crying out loud.
This what the rookie system is all about trying blokes who you aren't prepared to commit the standard 2 years to via the National draft.
If it had worked out everyone would saying how great it is, it hasn't and it hasn't cost us anything so it hasn't hurt us at all.
I think he can be put back on the rookie list now and we can promote someone else - so it may just turn out to be a win
now WP firstly ill say your right it may turn out to be a good thing as we can now promote someone else "who is committed to our club"
you can agree or not i dont care but if he was committed he would stick around longer than 6 months. Secondly he would try and lose some of that heavy baggage . He has done neither.
dont agree with it being "only a rookie pick" Every pick is crucial and im not happy to waste them on Kingsley, Polak and Roberts types.
Dimma got this wrong but so what he has got plenty right so far but what im trying to point out is some gems can get selected in the rookie and i hope we dont recruit another overweight player who is 4 steps behind every else again.
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A shame in one way as he was starting to show quarter-long glimpses of his talent at Coburg but given we got him at pick 38 in the rookie draft it's no cost if he decides AFL along the dedication and workload required to make it isn't for him. Not all the kids we draft will make it.
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Relton will come good! :cheers
As a sumo wrestler (http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink020.gif)(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink005.gif)(http://www.freesmileys.org/smileys/smiley-eatdrink028.gif)
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I dont think Dimma had much to do with Reltons recruitment. Wouldnt it have been the recruiting department?
Wishing Relton all the best and if he comes back to RFC great and lets all welcome him with open arms.
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It's a great start to richmonds indiginous program.
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Opening a KFC franchise in Barunga probably wouldn't be a bad business idea.
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he can go on tour with Byron Picket
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he can go on tour with Byron Picket
and derek kicket lol
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Opening a KFC franchise in Barunga probably wouldn't be a bad business idea.
Dont you mean KFT(urtle)
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Who's to say he won't be back? He might go home and reassess his life in the calm environment of home and rethink the opportunity senior AFL football presents. It might be all he needs to re-evaluate and re-focus. Never say never.
too late i reckon, at his age i would have hoped he would have shed his excess weight by now, 6-7 months to lose 10-12kgs at a professional sports organisation isnt hard if u are prepared to do the hard yards - didnt that fat prick Dew lose 25kgs in 4 months? The fact he's still overweight as well as not being sure if he wants to play says enough for mine and the fact he's 24 rubber stamps it. Its a shame but seeya! In situations like this i feel for te 100s of 18-19y/o's who would do anything to play AFL(and have the talent ie barlow!) but miss out
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Relton is not you every day 24 year old
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relton has more skill in his fat little toe than half those 100 18year olds
Who's to say he won't be back? He might go home and reassess his life in the calm environment of home and rethink the opportunity senior AFL football presents. It might be all he needs to re-evaluate and re-focus. Never say never.
too late i reckon, at his age i would have hoped he would have shed his excess weight by now, 6-7 months to lose 10-12kgs at a professional sports organisation isnt hard if u are prepared to do the hard yards - didnt that fat prick Dew lose 25kgs in 4 months? The fact he's still overweight as well as not being sure if he wants to play says enough for mine and the fact he's 24 rubber stamps it. Its a shame but seeya! In situations like this i feel for te 100s of 18-19y/o's who would do anything to play AFL(and have the talent ie barlow!) but miss out
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Who's to say he won't be back? He might go home and reassess his life in the calm environment of home and rethink the opportunity senior AFL football presents. It might be all he needs to re-evaluate and re-focus. Never say never.
too late i reckon, at his age i would have hoped he would have shed his excess weight by now, 6-7 months to lose 10-12kgs at a professional sports organisation isnt hard if u are prepared to do the hard yards - didnt that fat prick Dew lose 25kgs in 4 months? The fact he's still overweight as well as not being sure if he wants to play says enough for mine and the fact he's 24 rubber stamps it. Its a shame but seeya! In situations like this i feel for te 100s of 18-19y/o's who would do anything to play AFL(and have the talent ie barlow!) but miss out
100% agree TM.
cant believe some on here bagged me for saying his heart wasnt in it
well i have news for you if his heart wasnt it tell me why was he eating a hamburger a few minutes before the Coburg game.
Real dedicated stuff that is.
Goodbye hope he doesnt come back plenty more Barlow and J Pod types that would chop off their arm to play AFL footy.
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well i have news for you if his heart wasnt it tell me why was he eating a hamburger a few minutes before the Coburg game.
Real dedicated stuff that is.
Carb loading :thumbsup
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dimma is all about family first
dont write off relton yet
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dimma is all about family first
dont write off relton yet
Relton=GONE
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Roberts rolled
NT News
THE self-discipline of Richmond's Relton Roberts came under fire after a Tigers' official saw him eating a hamburger before a VFL match two weeks ago.
Roberts was busted when he was due to line up for Richmond's affiliate Coburg in its Round 10 clash with Werribee, Melbourne gossip columnist Craig Hutchison reported.
The 24-year-old, who has played only two games for the Tigers, returned to the NT to reconsider his AFL career.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/07/21/165851_entertainment.html
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only a sub human would bother to run an article like this.
I think it's time to do some investigating on this dog.
Air some of his past,as you will....
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Last night I asked Astbury and Connors about Roberts and they said he won't be back. He has a young baby and his wife came down here for a while but hated it so went back north. He found being away from his family very difficult, became increasingly homesick and depressed. They said he struggled with the discipline and lifestyle of an AFL footballer which is why he blew out again after gaining fitness over the summer.
Stripes
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Melbourne gossip columnist Craig Hutchison reported.
lol, Whack Hutchy!!!
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The stupid thing is there's not a lot wrong with a proper hamburger, except the bun it comes in.
Hutchy the gossip columnist. :lol Sums up the germ perfectly as he is not fit to be labeled a journalist.
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Roberts rolled
NT News
THE self-discipline of Richmond's Relton Roberts came under fire after a Tigers' official saw him eating a hamburger before a VFL match two weeks ago.
Roberts was busted when he was due to line up for Richmond's affiliate Coburg in its Round 10 clash with Werribee, Melbourne gossip columnist Craig Hutchison reported.
The 24-year-old, who has played only two games for the Tigers, returned to the NT to reconsider his AFL career.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/07/21/165851_entertainment.html
That's hilarious! Deadset :cheers Some guys just aren't cut out for this caper. Good luck Relton. All the best.
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Last night I asked Astbury and Connors about Roberts and they said he won't be back. He has a young baby and his wife came down here for a while but hated it so went back north. He found being away from his family very difficult, became increasingly homesick and depressed. They said he struggled with the discipline and lifestyle of an AFL footballer which is why he blew out again after gaining fitness over the summer.
Stripes
Good luck to him in life. I got lots of enjoyment watching him play this season in pre-season games and for Coburg.
Has more talent than most of the blokes that have put on the Richmond jumper last 15 years
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All the best to Relton,
Was lucky enough to bump into him on an odd occasion seems like a really decent bloke.
Wish him all the best.
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Not all the kids we draft are going to make it especially the rookie picks. We took a punt with a late-ish rookie pick and it didn't pay off. Not a big deal given many of last year's draftees are already playing in our 22 - Martin, Griffiths, Astbury, Nason and Webberley. Not a bad return all up. All the best to Relts.
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LMAO @ Hutchy outing Relton because he wanted a hamburger.
Good luck to RR, got more important things to worry about by the sounds of it.
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T H E B U R G E R !
(http://declubz.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/big-ass-hamburger.jpg)
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RELTONS FIRST BITE,complete with fan posing beside it
(http://www.funny-potato.com/images/hamburger/world-hamburger.jpg)
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LMAO @ Hutchy outing Relton because he wanted a hamburger.
Hutchy wanted a hamburger and got ticked off because Relts got in just before him to eat the last one lol.
Is that "gossip columnist" :lol Hutchy wearing the crown there Ox :rollin
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LMFAO MT - It really does look like the spineless,aids infested,child molesting,untrustworthy,lagging son of a bitch too !!!
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:lol :lol :lol gossip columnist!!!!! oh how he would have hated that! :thatsgold
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What was Hutchy doing at a VFL game anyway? Stalking the RFC or something :sleep
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Relton Roberts "delisted" according to 'rateyourlist' page on the afl site:
http://rateyourlist.afl.com.au/richmond/#disqus_thread
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Roberts returns to Wanderers
Grey Morris
NT News
September 12th, 2010
NTFL club Wanderers have welcomed livewire forward Relton Roberts back to the fold after his brief career with AFL club Richmond.
Roberts has decided not to return to the Tigers after two senior games and instructions by Richmond coach Damien Hardwick to sort out his priorities.
The return of the "Ngandi Storm" is good news for coach Paul Motlop, who lost Roberts, Shane Thorne and Troy Taylor to the national draft last year.
"Obviously Liam Patrick has gone to the Gold Coast, but we've got Relton Roberts back and that's a big plus for the footy club," Motlop said. "It was sad for him not to be able to continue his footy career at Richmond, but he's had his chance and an opportunity at the big time.
"I think he's happy to be back here playing and we're very happy to have him in a Wanderers jumper again.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/09/12/178751_ntsport.html
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ahh well, all the best to the ngandi gut. He's happy with the nippers and the missus and his mates. If he was a bit younger and had less baggage back home, he might of stuck around. Maybe one of his nippers will grow up keen to play.
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I wish Troy Taylor would get a hold of that burger!!
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In the NT News today, Roberts says he regrets not giving his brief AFL career at Richmond a red-hot go.
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In the NT News today, Roberts says he regrets not giving his brief AFL career at Richmond a red-hot go.
Too late! she cried. :P
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In the NT News today, Roberts says he regrets not giving his brief AFL career at Richmond a red-hot go.
Too late! she cried. :P
Interesting. I wonder what Hardwick would do if he got a phone call from Roberts this morning saying "I got it all wrong and I want a 2nd chance"? He is still on our list and contracted for another year, and was allowed to go back to re-assess if he really wanted an AFL career. Wonder if we would really give him that chance? My guess is no they wouldn't but who knows!
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Interesting. I wonder what Hardwick would do if he got a phone call from Roberts this morning saying "I got it all wrong and I want a 2nd chance"? He is still on our list and contracted for another year, and was allowed to go back to re-assess if he really wanted an AFL career. Wonder if we would really give him that chance? My guess is no they wouldn't but who knows!
I don't think they would.
Obviously lacks the required discipline & didn't show enough in the games he had.
Whilst showing some skill with the ball he was very poor defensively and not physical enough.
I think Roberts is destined to be a bush league star. Good luck with that.
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Interesting. I wonder what Hardwick would do if he got a phone call from Roberts this morning saying "I got it all wrong and I want a 2nd chance"? He is still on our list and contracted for another year, and was allowed to go back to re-assess if he really wanted an AFL career. Wonder if we would really give him that chance? My guess is no they wouldn't but who knows!
He is currently on the rookie list until they do the first lot of list lodgements
As a rookie he would only be on a 1 year contract
I would think he aint coming back.
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Interesting. I wonder what Hardwick would do if he got a phone call from Roberts this morning saying "I got it all wrong and I want a 2nd chance"? He is still on our list and contracted for another year, and was allowed to go back to re-assess if he really wanted an AFL career. Wonder if we would really give him that chance? My guess is no they wouldn't but who knows!
He is currently on the rookie list until they do the first lot of list lodgements
As a rookie he would only be on a 1 year contract
I would think he aint coming back.
That pretty much settles it then, thanks WP. Forgot he was a promoted rookie.
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In the NT News today, Roberts says he regrets not giving his brief AFL career at Richmond a red-hot go.
GIVE RELTON ANOTHER CHANCE
:gotigers :gotigers
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Here's the full article.....
Relton's regret
GREY MORRIS
September 15th, 2010
RELTON Roberts regrets not giving his brief AFL career at Richmond a red-hot go.
The 24-year-old from Ngukurr in the Territory's Roper River region returned home in July when Richmond told him to head north and sort out his personal life.
"I wanted to play AFL footy but I found it really hard with my family up here and me down there in Melbourne," the quicksilver forward said.
"Thinking back I probably should have stayed and played AFL.
"Particularly when my family situation changed a fair bit after I got back home."
Richmond's silence on the Roberts saga has been deafening since he left the club more than two months ago.
Several attempts by the NT News to speak with the club's football manager Craig Cameron or their welfare officers have been unsuccessful.
Roberts has not spoken to anyone at Richmond since his untimely exit from Punt Road but the "Ngandi Storm's" highlights reel includes two league games (Carlton and Sydney).
Despite losing against Carlton, he had a dream debut grabbing five marks, seven kicks and a behind. He even had a smattering of tackles throughout the MCG showdown and looked sharp as he ran on to the field, sporting the famous Richmond yellow and black with No. 50 on his back, complete with eye-catching white footy boots.
He started the game on the bench before being brought on to man the forward line and showed good speed.
Interestingly, Roberts played part of the game on fellow Northern Territory product Joe Anderson. In his Sydney encounter he was knocked out, and later was in trouble for breaking a night curfew and also warned for eating a hamburger before a VFL match.
"I haven't spoken to them since I've been back and that's a bit disappointing," Roberts said. "So it's over for me and that's pretty sad, especially for my fans and my family up here. But one thing I'm pretty proud of and something I can tell my sons and grandkids, is that I made it to the AFL.
"If I can do it, everyone can, and that includes a lot of young Territory boys who want to play AFL footy and have dreamed about it for a long time.
My advice is don't just dream - grab it with both your hands and give it your best shot without any distractions."
Roberts has already trained with his NTFL club Wanderers in preparation for the NTFL this season.
"I'm sticking with the Eagles until I retire, they'll always be my club," he said.
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/09/15/179571_ntsport.html
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Back in Eagles nest
NT News
Grey Morris
October 15th, 2010
RELTON Roberts wasted no time slipping into a blue and gold Wanderers jumper last night, six months after discarding the black and gold of AFL club Richmond.
Ngukurr-born Roberts was officially delisted by the Tigers yesterday, joining Tom Hislop, Jordan McMahon, Adam Thomson and rookie Alroy Gilligan in the ex-Tigers club.
But the 24-year-old has no regrets about his two-game career in Australian football's "Big Show" that saw him playing in front of 60,000-strong crowds.
"I enjoyed it while I was there but I knew two months ago my time in Melbourne was up," he said.
"All I want to do now is play for my old side Wanderers and hopefully kick a few goals for coach Paul (Motlop) and get them into the finals.
"We've got a lot of depth there now with juniors like Simon Bates, Jarred Erlandson and David Kruse coming through and good players like Damien Roe joining the club."
Roberts said he was definitely looking forward rather than back on what had been a tough time in the AFL and coming to grips with life in a footy mad city like Melbourne.
"I'll tell my grandchildren about playing for the Tigers and just being part of the AFL," he said.
"But now it's full steam ahead at Wanderers, I haven't played for them since last December so I'm really looking forward to running out with all of my old teammates again.
"Shane Thorne will be back at Christmas, Shane Thompson is nearly over a knee injury, the Motlop boys (Aaron and Thomas) are very good players and we've picked up Damien Roe from Nightcliff, so we're looking pretty good this early in the season."
Roberts makes his comeback against reigning premier and Wanderers' nemesis in recent years, St Marys.
"We've had a bit of trouble with Saints and I'm not sure why," he said.
"Maybe it's a bit of mental toughness we've been lacking, but either way we'll be keen to change all that this week."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/10/15/186791_ntsport.html
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Good luck to him. Sad he never made it at Richmond
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"We've got a lot of depth there now with juniors like Simon Bates, Jarred Erlandson and David Kruse coming through and good players like Damien Roe joining the club."
Not for long Relts, that kid will get picked up this year's National draft.
Can't recall if he's GC bound but wouldn't mind having a look at him with a pick around 50. 190cm rebounding defender.
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Yeah I liked Relton, had the tools, just needed some conditioning and to get his missus and nipper down here with him.
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Rocket man Relton rips apart Tigers
NT News
November 1st, 2010
THERE was little to celebrate at Tigerland yesterday after a Relton Roberts-inspired Wanderers trounced Nightcliff 18.12 (120) to 9.13 (67).
In front of a parochial home crowd, former Tiger and now high-flying Eagle Thomas Motlop, spoiled the Nightcliff 60 years celebration with a ten possession first quarter to almost single handedly put paid to the Tigers' sense of history.
Motlop was well supported by John Bonson who led former AFL champion Adam Hunter a merry dance at centre half back.
In the second term, Nightcliff moved Hunter, the AFL swingman, to centre half back to good effect and with Wanderers playing fanciful football, they surged but couldn't fully capitalise because of poor finishing.
Persistence paid off for the home team and with the first two goals of the third term they hit the front.
But enter Relton Roberts. In a burst of footballing splendor, he booted three third-quarter goals, and with an additional six pointer from Thomas Motlop, Wanderers grabbed a 27-point lead at the break and extended it to 53 points by the final siren.
Motlop was full of praise for the Tigers but happy with his own game.
"They showed a lot of spirit and just kept coming at us but it was good by our boys to overcome them and get on top again," he said.
"It's good to get back to a bit of form myself. I've been a bit flat lately and it's nice to match Relton (Roberts) because we've got a bit of a competition going."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/11/01/190881_ntsport.html
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Pffft... Second rate footballer with potential but ultimately being too weak as a person to realise the opportunity, playing in a second rate comp.
As my 13 yo daughter would say.
Epic Fail.
Supported him when he wore the sash but now.... meh :burgereater.
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You ever had to live away from your kid? I was in the navy for nine years, I was away from my family for a lot of the time, it gets tough on you. After that my kid was taken up to Queensland against my wishes and it was made hard for me to see him. Its rough on you so maybe think about your 13 year old daughter and not seeing her and then consider what Relton was going through and maybe you could see your way to some compassion rather than insulting him.
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You ever had to live away from your kid? I was in the navy for nine years, I was away from my family for a lot of the time, it gets tough on you. After that my kid was taken up to Queensland against my wishes and it was made hard for me to see him. Its rough on you so maybe think about your 13 year old daughter and not seeing her and then consider what Relton was going through and maybe you could see your way to some compassion rather than insulting him.
good point owl, it's easy to forget just how young these recruits are not too mention some that have baggage attached ..it's hard enough making the adjustment to elite sport never mind any other background distractions that can be overwhelming...looked to be same kinda problem that overcame RT
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dont think Relton is as young as people think.
should never ever had been picked up in the first place by Richmond.
looked 5 months pregnent when he came down ::)
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards needs to be there as well.
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
Fair enough but that falls under the commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
Early sacrifices so your family can have a better life.
Couldn't do it.
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
He may have missed his family a lot but the discipline and commitment wasn't there either (eg: caught eating a burger at Coburg).
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
You would have to be joking ?? Seen him pre season against Essendon at Moe, he would of fitted in perfectly in the maternity ward at St.Vincents Hospital. Looked like the Paul Hogan character Arthur Dunger !
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
Fair enough but that falls under the commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
Early sacrifices so your family can have a better life.
Couldn't do it.
Not disputing for a second that he was missing his little boy terribly because I know he was but I reckon []())([]™ & MT have hit the nail on the head.... the discipline wasn't there either.
There were faults on both sides (club & player) but oput simply IMHO Relton wanted to play AFL but didn't appear to be commited enough to play AFL
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its all intertwined and connected
when ur mind is distracted cos of missing ur family u resort to habits that comfort u, usually food etc
its not that simple
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You could tell straight away from his very first game that he lacked the physicality and defensive work ethic required at AFL level.
Massive longshot despite the hamburger incident.
Move on.
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Roberts was drafted as a 23 y.o. rookie (turned 24 in March). Like Peterson, you can't just rely on natural talent at AFL level. The commitment, dedication and willingness to do the hard yards is there.
wasnt a commitment or discipline thing for relton, he was genuinely missing his family esp his little boy who were all up north
You would have to be joking ?? Seen him pre season against Essendon at Moe, he would of fitted in perfectly in the maternity ward at St.Vincents Hospital. Looked like the Paul Hogan character Arthur Dunger !
Who cares, when you are a full time athlete it's not too hard to lose weight. Just look at how much weight Stuart Chew Dew lost in one preseason after coming out of retirement.
He had the talent but not the application, he was a late rookie pick which is where you take your high risk high reward players.
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You could tell straight away from his very first game that he lacked the physicality and defensive work ethic required at AFL level.
Massive longshot despite the hamburger incident.
Move on.
Meh.
He was fast and smooth. I reckon he had more talent than most
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Really are we not over this guy yet...it's not like we owe him anything by continually talking about him, he watsed his chance.... bye Relton, Go close the thread already...
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Storm returns
Grey Morris
NT News
February 9th, 2011
Former AFL player Relton Roberts is hopeful of making a return to the Wanderers' senior ranks soon. Picture: REGI VARGHESE
ONE year ago Relton Roberts was getting ready to play the game of his life.
The Ngukurr-born goalkicker was only weeks away from his first AFL match for Richmond in what had been a meteoric rise from the Katherine competition to the biggest sporting stage in Australia.
But history shows it all came undone after a combination of homesickness, bad diet, cigarettes and personal problems. After just two senior games and a handful of VFL matches Relton Roberts, the 24-year-old Ngandi Storm with all the skills, was back in the NT.
Even his return to the NTFL competition was inconsistent, with some brilliant performances combined with ordinary ones.
No senior matches since early November had Top End fans wondering if the champion goalkicker would ever come back.
"I probably just wanted to have a rest and Wanderers weren't in a big rush for me to get back," Roberts said.
"Paul (coach Paul Motlop) told me he's not in a rush and that's good.
"My fitness is good now. There are no more smokes and I'm nearly ready to go.
"One more game in the reserves this week and hopefully I'll be back in A-grade next week against Nightcliff." Roberts is keen to make an impression with Wanderers this season, which is good news for an Eagles side primed for a serious tilt at its first senior flag since 1993.
"I'm just about right. Hopefully I'll be up forward where I can kick a few goals then come back next year after a good season with the Arnhem Crows," he said.
Wanderers coach Paul Motlop wants a fit and motivated Roberts in the senior side. "Relton's got to get his fitness up. We need him to be playing at a reasonable level," Motlop said.
"At the moment he's missed a few weeks so he's got a bit to catch up on if he wants a game.
"There's no doubt a fit Relton playing good football would be the cream on the cake for us, but right now he's got some hard work to do and not much time left."
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2011/02/09/211431_ntsport.html
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Cigarettes as well!!! :o No wonder this guy never made it! :banghead
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Cigarettes as well!!! :o No wonder this guy never made it! :banghead
He would have fitted in well in the eighties. Probably wouldve been a star. He obviously has natural talent but born in the wrong era for AFL/VFL.
What the club needs to do is go back to the drawing board a come up with a better system to keep the indigenous guys around for the long term. We know they have awesome natural ability but they must be comfortable enough with city life away from family and friends and life with the riguors and pressure that comes with AFL.
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Cigarettes as well!!! :o No wonder this guy never made it! :banghead
He would have fitted in well in the eighties. Probably wouldve been a star. He obviously has natural talent but born in the wrong era for AFL/VFL.
What the club needs to do is go back to the drawing board a come up with a better system to keep the indigenous guys around for the long term. We know they have awesome natural ability but they must be comfortable enough with city life away from family and friends and life with the riguors and pressure that comes with AFL.
The might want to start by recruiting the right type of profile - Relton was not serious enough about his football to apply his talent into becoming an elite footballer.
I loved him but he was never going to make it.
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I couldn't find this on the net so I scanned it in.....
Still the Wanderer - Wayward Roberts off-track again
By Craig Hutchison, Additional reporting Julian Bayard
Herald-Sun
27 Feb 2011, Page 66
IT'S been quite the fall from grace for former Richmond player Relton Roberts.
Roberts, who left the Tigers mid-way through last season, has returned to the Northern Territory in the hope of playing senior footy again for the Wanderers in Darwin.
However, his poor attitude, which is something that saw him in strife at the Tigers, has once again let him down with Wanderers president Steve Olsson slamming his performance at the club.
"Since he's come back from Melbourne, his whole attitude has been not up to scratch,'' Olsson said.
"He's been late for team meetings, hasn't turned up to training, he's been eating the wrong stuff, drinking the wrong stuff.''
Roberts played two senior games at the Tigers last season. His form and condition fell away, and a club official was astonished late in the year when he saw Roberts eating a burger, bought from a junk food van, before to playing a VFL match.
Olsson said the club was disappointed that he was wasting his talents.
"(He would have been) very handy and, in Darwin footy, everybody knows what he's capable of, but he just hasn't been able to put it together,'' he said.
Roberts was dropped by the club earlier in the season, but Olsson said he hadn't learned from his mistakes.
"We dropped him early in the season for disciplinary reasons and he then sort of spat the dummy a little bit,'' Olsson said.
Roberts told the NT News earlier this month he was keen to get back in the seniors: "My fitness is good now. There are no more smokes and I'm nearly ready to go.''
But he was not in the Wanderers side named for last night's qualifying final against the Tiwi Bombers.
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and our football department thought that this guy was fit to play in Rd1 last year and worth a rookie upgrade...hmmm
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I think it was more the fact that he was one of two mature aged rookies so had less time to prove himself
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Who cares ?
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I think it was more the fact that he was one of two mature aged rookies so had less time to prove himself
Infamy, I understand that but what message does it send to the rest of the list/rookies.
we will play a guy who is clearly not up to it physically (as in fitness wise) but the rest of you who are fit (eg Gourdis Hicks etc) can wait for your chance near the end of the year....
why not elevate gourdis at the start of the year or no one at all...and then in the middle of the year elevate relton ...let him get his fitness up at Couburg as well as experience and then bring him into the side...
the new regime of Dimma et all and FJ and his scouts have done a wonderful job but this was clearly an error....
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I think it was more the fact that he was one of two mature aged rookies so had less time to prove himself
Infamy, I understand that but what message does it send to the rest of the list/rookies.
we will play a guy who is clearly not up to it physically (as in fitness wise) but the rest of you who are fit (eg Gourdis Hicks etc) can wait for your chance near the end of the year....
why not elevate gourdis at the start of the year or no one at all...and then in the middle of the year elevate relton ...let him get his fitness up at Couburg as well as experience and then bring him into the side...
the new regime of Dimma et all and FJ and his scouts have done a wonderful job but this was clearly an error....
Saw the Challenge game against Essendon we played last year prior to Round 1, Relton kicked 3 that day I think and was one of our better performers. His elevation was probably based on that game, the rest is history now.
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I think it was more the fact that he was one of two mature aged rookies so had less time to prove himself
Infamy, I understand that but what message does it send to the rest of the list/rookies.
we will play a guy who is clearly not up to it physically (as in fitness wise) but the rest of you who are fit (eg Gourdis Hicks etc) can wait for your chance near the end of the year....
why not elevate gourdis at the start of the year or no one at all...and then in the middle of the year elevate relton ...let him get his fitness up at Couburg as well as experience and then bring him into the side...
the new regime of Dimma et all and FJ and his scouts have done a wonderful job but this was clearly an error....
They're allowed to make mistakes, all things considering, the one on Relton was pretty minor
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I thought Relton started the year having done all the hard work asked and had got himself into reasonable nick. He was a little down on endurance but he was working hard and heading the right way. It wasn't until later in the year that he lost his way and put all the weight back on and was smoking and eating crap. He wasn't picked again because of it. My understanding was when he was picked he was doing all the right things.
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Whatever the reasons
1) Mentally he was not up to it letting himself go when things didn't fall his way.
2) No longer with us.
That's not to say I hope he does not get himself ready for footy at any level but let it all go.
Goodbye and good luck.