Biographical entry: Hart, Royce (1948 - )

Born
1948
Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
Occupation
Athlete

Summary

Royce Desmond Hart, footballer, was born in Hobart. Recruited as a 17-year-old from the Clarence under 19s by Richmond (Victoria), he represented them in 187 games, kicking 363 goals.

Details

His 1967 debut was stunning: he was Richmond's leading goalkicker and VFL Recruit of the Year, played in their first premiership in 24 years, represented Victoria and was named in the All-Australian team. Premiership glory came again in 1969, and under his captainship in 1973 and 1974.

Hart played for Victoria eleven times - once as captain. Knee injuries restricted his career, and he turned to coaching following his 1977 retirement. Widely regarded as one of the best post-war centre half forwards, Hart was named in the AFL 'Team of the Century', and is a member of the Tasmanian Sporting Hall of Fame.

Wendy Rimon

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