Richard Tambling

Infobox afl player NEW
playername = Richard Tambling
fullname = Richard Tambling
image capt = Richard Tambling


birthdate = Birth date and age|1986|9|12|df=y
birthplace = Northern Territory
originalteam = Southern Districts (NT)
draftpick = 4^th overall, 2004
AFL Ric
heightweight = 180cm / 81kg
position = Midfield/Forward Pocket
dead = alive
deathdate =
deathplace =
currentclub = AFL Ric
guernsey = 30
clubs = AFL Ric
games(goals) = 66 (47)
coach = notcoach
coachingteams =
careerhighlights =
careerhighlights =

* Harrison Medal 2004

Richard Tambling (born 12 September 1986) is an Australian rules footballer in the Australian Football League.

AFL career

As draft pick

In the 2004 AFL Draft Tambling was a first round selection, the number four pick overall, and drafted to the Richmond Football Club. He had long been considered a dominant player up in the Northern Territory with his explosive speed and amazing ability to read the play; he only confirmed that status throughout the 2004 pre-season. Terry Wallace was particularly impressed, saying he and Deledio were the "best young kids in the country". However, criticism followed as lower draft pick Lance Franklin (pick number five that year) performed at a better level than Tambling.

2005 and 2006

He played in 12 games in the 2005 AFL season and a further 21 in the 2006 AFL season. In the latter stages of 2005, Tambling struggled with injury, including a broken toe and a consistent hamstring problem. Although Tambling has shown that he has the talent and speed to become a household name, injury has so far 'clouded his horizon'.

2007

The speedy youngster came under scrutiny in previous seasons, but showed what he can do when he booted four first-quarter goals against West Coast in round five. Richmond has great faith in this developing player and will back the No. 4 pick from 2004 to step up from 2007 and beyond.

Cult player and enigma

Tambling is also known for being a cult figure amongst grass roots footy fans for a variety of reasons. Firstly, he is known for having the propensity to score the first goal of a game, giving rise to the term "Gambling on Tambling", which refers to the first goal punting phenomenon. He is also an avid moustache devotee, giving him elite status amongst fans due to the relative scarcity of the 'tache in today's game.

2008

Tambling has further developed his game in season 2008 and has spent more time in the midfield. While his time on ground may not be big, Tambling has proved a handy midfielder who has the ability to win the contested football and kick goals.

External links

*Richplayer|ref=352324
*AflRleague|ref=R/Richard_Tambling.html