Richmond is pleased to announce that Steve Morris will coach the Club’s VFL team in 2022.

Morris spent this season as an assistant to senior coach Xavier Clarke, playing a significant role training and mentoring VFL-listed players.

The 2019 VFL premiership captain and former 87-game AFL Tiger has shown excellent commitment to the VFL program since finishing his elite-level career in 2017.

Morris played six games for the Tigers in 2021, averaging 15 disposals and three marks. He will continue as a player alongside his coaching duties next year.

The 32-year-old said he was excited by the opportunity.

“I am looking forward to continuing to work with the young guys we have got coming through our VFL program.

“The stop-start nature of this year was frustrating at times for all of us, but the boys showed plenty of resilience and a real willingness to improve their games and be self-driven.

“I think that should hold us in good stead for next season, and I am really looking forward to getting to work and helping every player involved with our VFL team.”

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Richmond General Manager- Football Performance Tim Livingstone said Morris was highly respected by all players.

“Steve has been an admired leader both on and off the field throughout his time at the Tigers,” he added.

“His dedication in assisting our VFL players and the second-tier program has been first-class. We are thrilled to be able to give Steve this opportunity and the players will also benefit greatly.”

Xavier Clarke will depart the role after two interrupted years. Clarke will continue as a line coach with the Richmond AFL program, a position he assumed in the back half of the 2021 season.