Richmond’s selection in the AFL mid-season rookie draft, Kye Annand, from Geelong’s VFL program, has been given the No. 41 guernsey for the start of his playing career at Tigerland.
It is the number that another tall key defender wore with distinction throughout his time with the Tigers after being recruited from a rival League club.
Scott Turner was picked up by Richmond with its second selection (No. 18 overall) in the 1990 mid-season draft following a stint at Melbourne, where he had played at reserve grade and under 19s level.
The 196cm Turner went on to become a mainstay in the Tigers’ senior side throughout the 1990s, predominantly at full-back, although he also was effectively used occasionally as a forward – most notably in the 1995 cut-throat, semi-final victory over Essendon, where he used his strong physical presence, along with two goals, to help spark a stirring yellow and black comeback.
As a full-back, he managed to keep champion Hawthorn full-forward Jason Dunstall goalless for an entire match during that ’95 season, which was no mean feat.
Turner was a cult hero of the Tiger Army, who loved his aggression, straight-ahead style of play, and thumping, long kicks out of defence.
He played 144 games all-up for Richmond from 1991-1999 and kicked 33 goals.
The other notable player to wear the No. 41 guernsey at Tigerland was small midfielder Nathan Foley, who was one of the great success stories of the AFL’s rookie draft system.
Taken by the Tigers with their first pick in the 2004 rookie draft, Foley was subsequently promoted to the Club’s primary playing list and made his senior debut midway through the 2005 season.
He blossomed into one of the competition’s best young midfielders, finishing a close second in the 2007 Jack Dyer Medal and continuing that fine form the following year, showcasing his contested ball-winning ability, hard running and polished disposal.
Unfortunately, from 2009 onwards, Foley endured a horror injury run for several years, but in between long stints on the sidelines he still managed to play some good football for the Tigers – such was his exemplary level of professionalism, determination and courage.
Overall, Foley played 154 senior games with Richmond from 2005-2014 and kicked 44 goals.
