DUAL premiership assistant Justin Leppitsch has informed Richmond of his decision to walk away from football at season's end.
The former Brisbane senior coach, who returned to the Tigers ahead of their drought-breaking 2017 flag, will coach out the remainder of the season before departing.
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"I have always known that eventually this time would come, and I would move on and do other things in my life," Leppitsch said on Friday.
"In many ways the current climate expedited something I have been thinking about for some time and it will help the club manage through this difficult period.
"I am absolutely committed to Richmond for the remainder of this season and hope we can add to the success we have achieved over the past three seasons."
Lepptisch's football resume has spanned 28 years and started with a stellar 227-game career at Brisbane including three premierships and three All-Australians.
He continued with the Lions for two seasons as an assistant before heading to Richmond for the 2009 season.
He returned to the Lions as senior coach from 2013-2016 before heading back to Punt Road where he was seen as a major influence on the backline and the growth of defenders including Alex Rance, Dylan Grimes, David Astbury and Nick Vlastuin.
"I have loved my time at Richmond, and I am proud of what we have been able to achieve as a club in my time here," Leppitsch said.
"Coaching and watching individuals grow as men and players is an amazing and rewarding experience.
"I would no doubt love to be involved in footy again at some stage in the future, but the time is right to take a break."
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Tigers coach Damien Hardwick praised Leppitsch's influence and hoped it will extend to a third flag this season.
"'Lepp'a would challenge, provoke thinking and innovate. He is a great teacher and has been an important part of our coaching team," Hardwick said.
"He can be incredibly proud of the contribution he made to our club."
