The Sunday Age has regurgitated Dimma's SEN interview.....
Finger surgery for Tiger Riewoldt Jon Pierik
November 14, 2010 COLEMAN medallist Jack Riewoldt will have an interrupted start to pre-season training because of finger surgery.
Richmond coach Damien Hardwick has revealed he let his superstar forward take part in the recent international rules series in Ireland despite knowing he required surgery.
''He needed a finger operation at the end of the year. We encouraged him to go [to Ireland] because it was really good for his development and also his leadership to go into those programs and mix with other players,'' Hardwick said.
''From our point of view, if he learns one thing from that trip, it's been a valuable experience.
''It may hinder his pre-season somewhat because that operation is a little bit later, but come two, three years down the track, if he has learnt some quality things from a coach such as Mick Malthouse or quality players, it's going to be an experience that is well worth it.''
Riewoldt was a non-factor through the Irish series. He battled flu on the eve of the second Test against Ireland at Croke Park and was given limited game time.
''He probably would have liked to have played better, from what he told me, but it was an experience he thoroughly enjoyed,'' Hardwick said.
While Riewoldt will be restricted in his training, the Tigers are buoyed by the progression of midfielder Nathan Foley, who managed only four matches last season - the last in round nine - before a recurring Achilles injury cut short his season.
''He effectively is going to be a first-round draft choice for us this year. He is progressing really well,'' Hardwick said on SEN radio.
''He has started some pool work, he is running around unhindered probably for the first time in 12 to 18 months which is exciting probably not only for the supporters but for the coaching staff also because they have probably only witnessed him playing half a dozen times.''
The Tigers have been active since the season finished. They snared former Carlton midfielder Shaun Grigg in trade week and are set to claim former Bomber Bachar Houli during the draft period and listed experienced former Melbourne forward Brad Miller as a mature-age rookie.
Hardwick said he was excited by the development of rookie-listed midfielder Pat Contin, who sought advice last year from former Hawthorn captain, Sam Mitchell.
http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/finger-surgery-for-tiger-riewoldt-20101113-17rxy.html
