With Richmond playing Hawthorn this Saturday at Devonport in a special tribute match for the victims of the Hillcrest Primary School tragedy, the Tigers’ long-time, strong connection to Tasmania is exemplified through this team of players (selected by Tony Greenberg) from the Apple Isle who wore (and, in some cases, continue to wear) the famous Yellow and Black colours with such distinction. We challenge any other AFL club to compile a team of their Tasmanian ‘imports’ throughout the years that could beat our Tassie Tigers.

The terrific team of Tassie Tigers is . . .

B: Chris Bond, Grant Allford, Darryl Sutton

HB: Cameron Clayton, Stephen Mount, Ben Harrison

C: Michael Gale, Ian Stewart, Shane Williams

HF: Matthew Richardson, Royce Hart, Jack Riewoldt

F: Trent Nichols, Michael Roach, Brendon Gale

R: Toby Nankervis, Paul Sproule, Noel Carter

IC: Justin Plapp, Derek Peardon, Mark McQueen, Gary Davidson

To underline the vast talent within this team of Tassie Tigers, here is a rundown of the key honours and awards many of the players attained during their time with Richmond at the game’s highest level.

Richmond premiership players – Royce Hart (1967, 1969, 1973, 1974), Paul Sproule (1973, 1974), Ian Stewart (1973), Noel Carter (1973), Cameron Clayton (1974), Michael Roach (1980), Stephen Mount (1980), Jack Riewoldt (2017, 2019, 2020) and Toby Nankervis (2017, 2019, 2020).

Jack Dyer Medallists – Royce Hart (1969, 1972), Ian Stewart (1971), Chris Bond (1994), Matthew Richardson (2007) and Jack Riewoldt (2010, 2018).

Captains – Royce Hart (1972-75), Toby Nankervis (2022).

Leading goalkicker award winners – Royce Hart (1967, 1971), Michael Roach (1979, 1980, 1981, 1983, 1985, 1986, 1987), Matthew Richardson (1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008), Jack Riewoldt (2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021).

Brownlow Medallists – Ian Stewart (1971).

150-game-plus players – Jack Riewoldt (305), Matthew Richardson (282), Brendon Gale (244), Michael Roach (200), Royce Hart (187).

Tasmanian Team of the Century members – Royce Hart, Ian Stewart, Michael Roach, Matthew Richardson.