Cocky recruit has eye of Tiger
JOSH Gibcus has issued an ominous warning to the Tigers’ AFL rivals and the newage key-forward monsters of the competition.
“Watch out guys, I’ll take down any player,” Gibcus said moments after being drafted.
The high-leaping key defender also wants to propel Richmond to its next flag.
This confidence isn’t for show. Gibcus, who became a Tiger with the ninth selection in the AFL Draft, walks the talk on the field.
And he is up for any challenge, highlighted by his shutdown job on the leading keyforward in the draft, Western Bulldogs father-son and No.2 selection Sam Darcy.
Coming off a dominant sixgoal haul in a Victorian trial which resulted in him rocketing up draft boards, the red-hot Darcy was restricted to six disposals and two goals by Gibcus in the Under-19 Victorian Challenge clash in July.
The 197cm draftee attacks the ball in the air like his life depends on it, resembling AllAustralian Demon Jake Lever in the NAB League for the Greater Western Victoria Rebels this season with his intercept marking prowess, remarkable spring and speed off the mark.
Those traits can stop athletic goalkicking machines Harry McKay, Ben King and Max King in the future.
The East Point product led
the NAB League for intercept marks and intercept possessions, and shapes as an exciting replacement for retired threetime premiership Tiger David Astbury, another graduate from the Rebels program.
A Brisbane supporter after living in Queensland during his early life, Gibcus has kept a watchful eye on the Tigers with members of his family who follow the club.
While key-position players generally take time to develop, the St Patrick’s College graduate is eager to help the Tigers win their next flag.
“I’ve been following them for quite a bit,” he said.
“I got to watch them win a couple of flags and hopefully when I get there, I can help them win a flag.”
Considered by Greater Western Sydney and Gold Coast with its early selections, Gibcus looms as a draft bargain for the Tigers.
Rebels coach David Loader said Gibcus was the modern prototype key defender.
“He’s 197cm, quick, has good endurance, is quite agile and has a massive leap,” he said.