Hardwick preaches Hafey gospelrichmondfc.com.au
By Tony Greenberg | Tue 22 September, 2009
New Richmond coach Damien Hardwick wants to instill the spirit of the triumphant Tiger teams of the 1960s and 70s into the current playing group.
Speaking at last week’s Jack Dyer Medal night, Hardwick told the audience he was hoping the special qualities that defined those Tommy Hafey-coached Tigers, could be transplanted into the Club’s modern-day players.
“I look back with envy at the Hafey era, the period between 1967 and ’74, and the four premierships that go with it – the most successful era of this club,” he said.
“Ruthless, relentless and, most importantly, uncompromising. These are the words used to describe those great teams.
“The sooner these words become associated with our current group, the closer we will be to that elusive 11th premiership.”
Hardwick advised the Yellow and Black faithful that the road to the Tigers’ next successful would be long, but short-cuts were definitely not on their map.
“The Richmond Football Club, from this point on, will take no short-cuts,” he said.
“We’ll make brave decisions – and make no apologies for them because, you know from our proud history, that a period of sustained success is built on the back of hard work and exceptional teamwork.
“You’ll hear the term “team first” a lot about Richmond from here on in. We won’t just pay it lip-service, we’ll absolutely live it. It will become the fundamental plank in restoring the Club to its rightful position as a power of the AFL.”
Hardwick finished his speech with a strong message to the Tiger players . . .
“There will no longer be a reliance on hope at the Richmond Football Club. We will believe,” he said.
“Over summer, you will start that belief by rehearsing, rehearsing and rehearsing an offensive and defensive game plan that will keep you in good stead for the 2010 season.
“Belief comes when you are properly prepared. Finally, we have a blueprint for success – and we will not deviate from that blueprint.
“Every decision we make will be around how this can help the Richmond Football Club win the 11th premiership cup, and develop a period of sustained success . . .”
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