Richmond CEO Brendon Gale says motivation is high at club and on a personal to prove last year’s drought breaking premiership success was no fluke.
The Tigers won their first flag since 1980 after defeating Adelaide by 48 points in the Grand Final, however he told SEN Breakfast the club did not take long to move forward towards the 2018 cycle.
“The thing that really motivates me is that we won. It’s been 37 years, but I do detect a sense of surprise that this was done, and that it was a bolt from the blue,” Gale said.
“I’m really looking forward to rolling the sleeves and almost franking what we’ve done in 17.
“Obviously there’s no guarantees, but I’m really motivated by the challenge of another campaign and backing up.”
Gale confirmed coach Damien Hardwick was on a short holiday and will be returning to the club in the new year, similar to the routine he followed last year.
He praised the premiership mentor for the way he changed his style and became more open towards people at the club. “I think he’s been extraordinary,” Gale said.
“I think when he came back to work in January 2017, he had changed significantly, maintained that evenness and openness throughout the year.
“I think he’s having a break with the family now, the assistant coaches are running the team which won’t be a problem.
“He’ll come back in January and he’s a very driven man and he’s experienced. He’s been in a few successful environments and campaigns, and we are looking forward to him leading us again.”
To hear the chat with Richmond CEO Brendon Gale click on the player below