Throughout 2026, we are cranking up the Tigerland time machine and transporting yellow and black barrackers back to 1966 to relive a pivotal year in Richmond’s history.

In today’s instalment, we take a look at a report in The Age newspaper of the Tigers’ intra-club practice match which highlighted an interesting player positional move. 

“Richmond’s regular full-back Fred Swift was tested at full-forward in the Tigers’ main practice match yesterday and kicked four goals.

Selectors are experimenting with the spearhead position because of Mick Erwin’s knee cartilage operation.

The other full-forward was Barry Richardson, who kicked two goals.

Richmond’s big men dominated the game, with captain Neville Crowe in brilliant form.

Pat Guinane, used as a follower and forward, was another good big man. He took many high marks and kicked four goals.

John Ronaldson, a 6ft 5in follower, who was groomed in the under-19s team last year, is improving each week, and should be a regular member of the senior team.

One of the best defenders was Geoff Strang, on a half-back flank.”

And there is a second article that focused on an umpiring controversy from another Richmond intra-club practice match.

“Richmond Football Club has another practice match planned for tomorrow – but there will be one difference from the game played last Tuesday night.

This time the Tigers will supply their own field umpires.

Officials do not want a repetition of last week’s incident when centreman Bill Barrot was reported by field umpire Ron Furlong.

The charge of alleged abusive language against Barrot will be heard by the League Tribunal tonight (he was subsequently cleared of the charge).

The Tigers asked the VFL to supply an umpire for last Tuesday’s game.

Richmond secretary Mr Graeme Richmond said: “I’m sure we’ll get along quite all right with our own umpire.”