...and I got my question about recruiting talls answered. Ask Danny
9:42:24 AM Tue 22 October, 2002
Danny,
I have keenly watched Martin McGrath's playing style through the year and observed the similarity of skills between he and Gavin Wanganeen. Kevin Sheedy firmed Wanganeen into the Essendon side as a back pocket player where he could run and jump at the ball. Do you see McGrath developing in a similar role for Richmond? Good luck, and keep on giving the 'youngies' a go.
Regards,
Michael Pahoff
Michael,
Firstly, let me just say that if Marty McGrath turns out to be as good a player as Gavin Wanganeen, we will be absolutely over the moon. Wanganeen has had a stellar career at both Essendon and Port Adelaide and is one of the competition's elite players. As for Marty developing into a back pocket player in the Wanganeen mould, I'm not sure about that, although I wouldn't completely rule it out. At this stage of his career, I think Marty's probably best suited to a forward role, as he showed throughout the 2002 season with the Coburg Tigers. Marty kicked nearly 50 goals and just about every second week took the Mark of the Year. With his tremendous leap and goal sense, I'd say Marty would initially make his way into AFL football as a forward. In the seasons to come, however, as he gains experience and builds his body up, I'm sure he'll be capable of adapting to a variety of different on-field roles.
Regards,
Danny
Danny,
It would be hard to imagine injury again devastating our big man department so badly two years in-a-row, but will we be seeking to get a few 'insurance' talls in the recruiting package this year, just in case?
Regards,
Stuart
Stuart,
I certainly hope we don't run into the same type of injury problems to our tall players next season as we encountered this season. Clearly, however, it's something we do need to guard against, so we will be looking to pick up one or two taller young players in the upcoming National Draft.
Regards,
Danny
Danny,
I know that the Tiges are looking at strengthening the midfield for the long term, but I also think giving some of the younger players a run there will help as well. Rodan does pretty well as an on-baller, as well as down forward, but I think giving you Krakouer a go in the midfield and alternating on the forward line would be great because I reckon he'll prove a brilliant talent.
Regards,
Doug
Doug,
I share your opinion of Andy Krakouer. He is an exciting prospect and I believe, in time, he's capable of developing into a very good midfielder. But at the moment, Andy needs to add some strength to his frame, so that he can compete successfully in the midfield. Hopefully, with a big pre-season under his belt, he'll be able to spend more time next year on the ball.
Regards,
Danny
Danny,
I've been a member for several years and I've noticed a lack of midfield dominance over the years. This year has proved the lack of depth in the midfield. Now that Kane Johnson is available (I know there's a few strings attached in getting him), I think Richmond's prime objective in drafting something should be someone of his stature. He's only 24 years old, a dual premiership player and fantastic skills. He would be ideal for Richmond. What is your opinion on this? Also, I have been very impressed with Mark Coughlan -- his hardness on the ball is superb. He just needs to bulk up a few kilos and I would say in a few years he could be like Brett Ratten. I've got big raps on him.
What do you think?
Regards,
Chris
Chris,
There's no doubt that Kane Johnson would be a real acquisition for the Tigers if we could get him through the door. As you mentioned, he is exactly the type of player we need to help boost our midfield area. It remains to be seen, however, if we can secure his services. With regards to Mark Coughlan, his development this year was excellent and I'm sure he's going to be a top player for the Richmond Football Club for many seasons.
Regards,
Danny
Danny,
I just want to know what you plan to do with Matthew Richardson next year because of his hamstring injury. Are you going to play him at full-forward, or in the backline, to put less strain on him.
Regards,
Anthony
Anthony,
I'd like to think Matty's hamstring problems are well and truly behind him now, so I reckon you can pencil him in for a position somewhere up forward. He showed throughout the last month of the 2002 home-and-away season that, at his best, he's the most dangerous forward in the competition. Opposition sides have a lot of problems matching him up, he's kicked almost 500 goals in his career, and he's a proven matchwinner, so I see no worthwhile reason to move 'Richo' into defence.
Regards,
Danny