Tom’s Tigers going big on and off the field
RICHMOND have leveraged their premiership last year to record a monster profit for 2018.
The Tigers emphasised their reputation as one of the AFL’s powerhouse clubs by recording an operating profit of $5.54 million (before amortisation and depreciation) and a net profit of $4.21 million.
The 2017 premiers this year became the first club to reach 100,000 members, which contributed to the strong financial result. The Tigers ended the year with 101,562 paid-up members.
“While the 2018 season didn’t deliver a premiership, everyone at the club is committed to taking us there again in 2019,” president Peggy O’Neal said.
“We will continue to give our players and coaches every support in achieving this ambition.
“Richmond members and supporters are now without question the most loyal, passionate fans in the AFL, and we thank you for the strength you give us both on and off the field.”
Richmond generated total revenue of $79.8 million, an increase of $14.6 million on the back of record memberships, sponsorships and attendances.
The Tigers topped the AFL attendances this year, averaging 61,175 spectators at home games and were ranked No.1 for total home-and-away crowds with 1.19 million.
The strong off-field performance, led by O’Neal, means the club is debt-free.
“We remain debt-free with cash reserves of $13.7 million.”
Richmond have been installed as premiership favourite for next year after securing the biggest free agent on the market, Tom Lynch.
The former Gold Coast cocaptain started training at Punt Rd Oval this week as the club’s first to fourth-year players returned for pre-season.
The full squad is due to return on Monday week.