ST KILDA APPOINTS ‘RICHO’

Pic: News Limited

ST KILDA has appointed Alan Richardson, a well-known figure around EFL circles, as its senior coach for the 2014 season.

Richardson was announced as the Saints’ coach for the next three seasons at a press conference in Seaford on Thursday.

The 48-year-old has significant coaching experience, including stints at Western Bulldogs, Collingwood, Essendon, Carlton and Port Adelaide.

Some East Burwood fans, however, believe his most significant tenure was at Ram Land.

Richardson led the Rams to back-to-back premierships in 1999 and 2000. He was also selected as the playing-coach in the club’s Team of the Century.

In a club statement, East Burwood says it is stoked for Richardson.

‘After serving a long coaching apprenticeship over many years, the East Burwood Football Club is extremely proud that Alan Richardson has finally been given an opportunity to coach at AFL level,’ the club said.

‘We know he will meet every challenge and we wish him all the best for a successful tenure at the St Kilda Football Club.

‘Congratulations Alan, from the East Burwood Football Club.’

The Park Orchards Football club was also thrilled for Richardson, following his heavy involvement with the Sharks over the past decade.

‘We congratulate local Park Orchards resident Alan Richardson on his appointment as coach of the St Kilda Football Club,’ the Sharks said in a statement.

‘Alan has assisted the Park Orchards Junior and Senior Football Clubs with his immense knowledge of football for over 10 years, with his boys playing junior football with our club.

‘More recently, Alan sat on coaching interviews for selecting our new Park Orchards senior coach, John Brown, whilst in Melbourne with his family post-football season.’

In 2012, Richardson delivered a fascinating and insightful presentation at the EFL senior coaches’ forum, discussing new coaching philosophies and techniques.