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Laurie Richards

Laurie Richards was a highflying forward and on-baller, who joined Fitzroy from Perth in 1971 & went on to play 80 games and kick 69 goals for the Lions, before returning to the West at the end of 1974. We caught up with Laurie recently at his Perth home and asked him about his days with Fitzroy.

1. What is your favourite memory from a Fitzroy game?

Favourite memories from games I played would include the days where I played an important part in a good team performance that resulted in a win. We certainly enjoyed that winning feeling, but did not experience it often enough. I particularly enjoyed playing well in front of the big crowds and on the hallowed surfaces of the VFL. While I speak to you, the memories begin to flood back. My first game [at full forward] on the dashing David Dench. Games in the centre on Bill Barrot, Bob Skilton and Jezza. Imagine playing CHF on Ron Andrews on a cold Melbourne day or the thrill of standing Bruce Doull, David McKay, Robbie McGhie, John Williams and many others. Playing as a ruckrover /HFF, I believe I produced my best efforts because I lacked the height and weight to be a consistent top line key forward. In the midfield position at the MCG against Richmond, I managed to get 17 marks one day. Enough self-congratulation. I think I got embarrassingly dragged the next week against Hawthorn at Waverley, when I couldn’t handle the treacherous surface or break free from the close attention of the opposition.

2. What are some of the funniest memories you have from your Fitzroy days?

Funniest occasion would have to be the day of fog that blanketed the Junction Oval in my first season in 1971. I remember it well because my parents were over from the West and my wife Jenny was due with our second child. I was on the bench. Boundary umpires had to run relay to the central umpire to indicate the result of scoring shots and some good humour was evident from all quarters, until Fitzroy snatched victory and the ‘Blues’ were out of the ‘four’. Everyone was in fine voice in the ‘Roys’ rooms after the game.

3. Which person had the greatest influence on your career, whilst at Fitzroy?

Many people made a positive contribution to my career at the club and I remain grateful to the recruiting folk Arthur Wilson/B. Wilkinson/Frank Bibby and particularly new coach Graham Donaldson for having sufficient confidence to give someone like me a chance. After chronic ankle problems in the West and desperate to be given the opportunity to play midfield, it was fantastic on occasions to be set free to roam the entire ground. Introduction to first night training resulted to some stitches in my scalp, as a result of a competitive marking session. I soon realised there were many tall mobile athletic players all vying for a spot in the seniors. Even so, I felt that I was quickly accepted as part of the senior squad and I have to thank some of the alltime ‘greats’ for their help and encouragement. Kevin Murray, Norm Brown, John Murphy and then young future stars Garry Wilson and Harvey Merrigan and others all made my family feel part of the club.

4. Who was the best player you played with at Fitzroy?

Look at the honour board. At the twilight of their careers and still producing the goods, Murray & Brown, proven ‘hardball’ getter and new captain, John Murphy and future All Australian, Garry Wilson ‘the flea’ ready to strut his stuff. Merrigan, Irwin… where do you stop? The respect that the Western Australian contingent gained was also well-earned with McCulloch, Duckworth, Miller and others to follow them, proving they could all match it with the best.

5. Which personalities and moments figure most prominently in your memories of Fitzroy?

Some of the personal highlight moments for me were being appointed Vice Captain, finishing second to Wilson in F & B count and selection in VFL team with team mate Irwin, to play SA in Adelaide. My biggest disappointment ever was to not play well in that match. I knew afterwards that I should have declared a minor infection, but I wanted to play too much to give up the chance. Fortunately for me, Jezza had flown over on the Saturday morning and promptly kicked 10 goals to get us home by a few points. Thinking about that day now in hindsight - what great players were in both teams and what a privilege it was for me to be there.

6. Who were some of the funniest characters you played with at Fitzroy?

Every club has their share of ‘characters’ and often the support staff provides the lighter moments in an otherwise serious business. Ray Keane (fitness), Larry Madison and the training staff could always be counted on for some witty comments. Pre-season trips were always excellent for hard work on the track and team bonding. Football Clubs are all about that shared "camaraderie" and "unity under fire" that can be difficult to explain to people not directly involved with teams playing body contact sports. The supporters were fine people and good company at picnic days and the annual ball.

7. Do you currently take an interest in the Brisbane Lions or the Fitzroy Redz?

There was a time when I secretly hoped I might get invited back to Victoria to coach the reserves team as a start to a new career. However time moves on. I am not a fanatical Lions supporter, but do look at how they perform. Keep an eye on Jarrod Molloy for traces of that fierce determination shown by fearless father Shane. Great news that the Fitzroy Redz are keeping the dream alive. I hope to catch up with some of the Roys in Victoria one day soon - when they are sure to invite all the WA lads over for a drink.
This exercise has awakened a desire to read Mum’s scrapbooks soon to prompt the brain cells and relive the time over again. We could all do things better if given the chance again. I am certainly grateful for the experience and have much to thank the Fitzroy Football Club for and treasure the memories of people well met in that sporting capital of Australia.

Interview by Peter Olm.
First produced for the Lions Fanzine "Reds Under the Beds"