RECENTLY retired Richmond tough-nut Jake King has paid tribute to Howlong’s Anthony Miles for his stunning transformation from delisted wannabe to rising star last season.
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The former Spider, North Albury Hopper and Murray Bushranger, 23, had been delisted by Greater Western Sydney after the 2013 season.
But after breaking into Richmond’s team to play North Melbourne in round 12, Miles finished the season as one of the AFL’s leading clearance players.
King, who will speak at Corryong Football Netball Club’s sportsman night next Friday, said Miles had grabbed his AFL lifeline with both hands.
“I guess when Milesey was at GWS it was one of those things that where it had recruited so many of the same players he never really got his opportunity,” King said.
“He arrived at Richmond, got his opportunity and grabbed it with both hands.
“Since getting his opportunity he has really performed and added some class and pace into the midfield.
“He ability to win the contested ball was something also something the Tigers really needed.
“It just really goes to show if you want something bad enough, the door gets open.
“Once the door opens it is in your own destiny to keep the door open and go forward — and that’s what he’s done.
“A lot of people could take a leaf out of his book.”
King said he had been keeping busy since his retirement in July after 107 games, pursuing business interests.
He has also recently gone into business with Port Adelaide forward Jay Schulz and fitness coach Darren Burgess.
The trio have opened their own gym called The Final Goal.
The tenacious Tiger was spending this week in Bali, exploring the opportunity of opening another gym in Seminyak.
He will also work for Triple M Footy this season as well as speaking at sportmans nights.
King said the challenge for Richmond this season was to win a final after the Tigers last year made successive finals series for the first time in almost 40 years.
“For Richmond to make finals for the past two years is a step forward and they get a pat on the back,” he said.
“But I guess for improvement every supporter wants to see their club take than next step.
“So if you looking for improvement from Richmond, then reality is they have to win a final.
“Because if they don’t then it will be looked upon as a failed season.
“But I’m pretty confident they can win a final and have got the playing group there now to take that next step.
“They have had a good pre-season, have got a fit and healthy list and no excuses not to perform.”
