On the eve of ... what is it, his 20th season? ... I feel compelled to pay tribute to Robert Harvey. If there is one thing that repeatedly irks me when people are comparing the very best players of the modern era, it's that they bandy the names of Voss, Buckley etc (both of whom I also admire greatly I might add) around relentlessly, yet often neglect the name 'Harvey' amongst the absolute greatest. There is not another player on the current 16 lists of AFL teams who should be held in higher esteem as a footballer than Robert Harvey.
On the field, he is a genius, for the better part resilient to serious injury and to the weekly attempts by opposition coaches to blanket his effectiveness. His courage is unquestionable, as is his fairness. His disposal has been sublime right throughout his fantastic career, and he would run his heart out if he thought it would contribute to a Saints win. I suspect he has at times.
Off the field, he typifies the humble champion. In the current climate of young blokes at footy clubs making fools of themselves, he stands out as a true beacon upon which to base a budding career - get on with the business, let your footy talk for you, and at all times maintain your professionalism. He has never sought out undue attention to his outstanding deeds and sportsmanship, despite having every right to do so.
Of course, as a hopelessly optimistic Richmond supporter, to see the Tigers take the flag would be the ultimate for me. But given the significant improbability of this eventuality in 2007, there would be nothing I would like better than to see Robert Harvey up there on the dais at the end of September holding up the Cup. There would be no more fitting recipient in my memory of modern footballers, and I'm sure it would be a welcome and lasting image.
I assume 2007 will be his last season? If so, best of luck Harvs. You are a true champion.
On the field, he is a genius, for the better part resilient to serious injury and to the weekly attempts by opposition coaches to blanket his effectiveness. His courage is unquestionable, as is his fairness. His disposal has been sublime right throughout his fantastic career, and he would run his heart out if he thought it would contribute to a Saints win. I suspect he has at times.
Off the field, he typifies the humble champion. In the current climate of young blokes at footy clubs making fools of themselves, he stands out as a true beacon upon which to base a budding career - get on with the business, let your footy talk for you, and at all times maintain your professionalism. He has never sought out undue attention to his outstanding deeds and sportsmanship, despite having every right to do so.
Of course, as a hopelessly optimistic Richmond supporter, to see the Tigers take the flag would be the ultimate for me. But given the significant improbability of this eventuality in 2007, there would be nothing I would like better than to see Robert Harvey up there on the dais at the end of September holding up the Cup. There would be no more fitting recipient in my memory of modern footballers, and I'm sure it would be a welcome and lasting image.
I assume 2007 will be his last season? If so, best of luck Harvs. You are a true champion.
