Adem Yze’s first media performance as head Richmond coach could not have gone any better.
It was confirmed on Thursday night that the highly rated Melbourne assistant would become Damien Hardwick’s replacement, and Yze was trotted out to media on Friday.
Flanked by Richmond president John O’Rourke and CEO Brendon Gale, Yze’s levels of excitement were palpable.
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And his infectious and caring personality was easy to see for all in attendance.
“Hopefully they (fans) will realise how caring I am for our players,” Yze said.
“I love relationship building . I love connecting with the players.
“I can’t wait until they (the players) get back from Thailand … to meet the boys.”
He then added, with a big smile on his face: “I might even head over there.”
Sensing his legitimate excitement, the packed media room erupted with laughter.
“Not sure my wife will allow me to do that,” he continued.
“I figure I will be the best coach ever if I rocked up to Thailand and said ‘hello’, so, on that side of it, I can’t wait to meet them.”
Yze won the race for Richmond’s senior coaching role, over Tigers caretaker Andrew McQualter.
He was the 2001 Demons best-and-fairest winner, and as an assistant coach at Melbourne, he took control of much of that club’s gameday strategy.
He was also a key influence during Melbourne’s 2021 premiership year.
More to come …
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