How Richmond’s newest recruit landed at the clubAidan Cellini
zerohanger.com
October 18, 2025 Patrick Retschko had experienced the lowest of lows when Geelong delisted him following the 2025 season.
But in a matter of weeks, his fortunes changed on Wednesday's trade deadline day.
Richmond, who scouted him ahead of the 2024 draft but struggled for list spots, had another opportunity to lure Retschko to Punt Road.
They offered the Cats Pick 99 with minutes to go before the deadline, which was quickly agreed to.
"It was surreal. Being a childhood Richmond fan, I couldn't really believe it," Retschko told Richmond Media.
"It has been a really long week coming off the list from Geelong, which was super disappointing, but they were huge in being able to facilitate a trade.
"Blair (Hartley) gave me the call (Wednesday) night, and I kind of went into shock, and I had a few friends and family around, and it was really cool to have a close community feel.
"Even wearing the polo now, I can't even believe it, standing in Punt Road."
Retschko was unable to crack into Chris Scott's senior side during his 12 months at Kardinia Park, but picked up significant learnings that he'll apply to the Tigers.
"I think at Geelong, I was really able to develop a sense of understanding of the system, and that is something you can only really understand after a year of being in the system, so Geelong were huge in preaching the importance of that," Retschko said.
"I feel like my run-and-carry and endurance is a huge part of my game, it just allows me to get to contest to contest and give myself as much opportunity to support my teammates."
The 19-year-old is keen to work alongside Hugo Ralphsmith, who has locked down a wing position under Adem Yze.
Retschko will also have a pinch-me moment lining up with veteran forward Tom Lynch in 2026.
"I love the way Hugo Ralphsmith plays on the wing, so I'll try and learn as much as I can off of him," Retschko said.
"Being a huge Richmond fan, I love Tom Lynch and the way he goes about it, marking the ball, and there were a few games where I remember thinking, just wow, he is a good player.
"I'm super excited to kick the ball to him a few times."
https://www.zerohanger.com/how-richmonds-newest-recruit-landed-at-the-club-170057/
