Originally from East Sandringham, Richard played football with the Sandringham Dragons and Xavier College before Essendon selected him at number 27 in the 2000 National AFL Draft.
A late developer, Richards did not play in any National AFL Pathway teams as a junior. This however did not stop Bomber recruiters seeing his potential while playing for the Dragons.
Richards played a full year in the VFL before his senior debut for the Bombers in 2002. The 20-year-old played only played two games last year, but in season 2003 he is reaching his potential.
Playing his 10th game for Essendon on the weekend, Richards topped the goal-kicking list with three goals against Adelaide at AAMI Stadium.
The tall forward is a good mark and smart around goals. Together with his aerobic capacity and athleticism, Richards will be looking to fill a key position in the years ahead.
