Ottens quits Tigers
Fox Sports
September 24, 2004
RUCK-forward Brad Ottens has quit AFL club Richmond, accusing the Tigers of having lost faith in him.
Ottens, 24, will now seek an opportunity at another club after seven seasons at Punt Road and Geelong and Sydney are understood to be the clubs most desperate to attain him.
Ottens said Richmond had asked him to take a "substantial" pay cut and although he acknowledged his recent form was below his best, was not prepared to accept the proposed offer.
"The proposed reduction was above what he felt reasonable and indicated the club had lost faith in him," said a statement from his management Elite Sports Properties.
"I need a new environment to get the best out of myself and enjoy my football." Ottens said.
"This is purely a football decision which I believe is in my best interests."
Ottens played 129 games for Richmond but finished eighth in the 2004 best and fairest in a side that finished last and won only four games.
Ottens was the No.2 pick in the 1997 national draft and as a 202cm rucking option who can also play forward, will appeal to several clubs come next month's trade period.
The Swans, who want a back-up ruckman for Jason Ball, are understood to be one of his potential suitors along with Geelong, which needs a key forward.