Richmond extends Hardwick contract for two more years

Favourite Richmond son Matthew Richardson says the clubs contract extension for coach Damien Hardwick is right move.

Hardwick was in the final year of his current contract, but now is locked away until 2018.

‘He took them from nothing,’ Richardson said on Sports Today.

‘The players love him, they’re on the right track. There’s no point changing now, you’ve got to see it through.’

Sports Today host Gerard Healy agree’s that Hardwick had earned the right to see out the road he is on.

‘If he doesn’t get very close to a premiership then (by 2018), I don’t think even he would be saying ‘I need more time’.’

Click to PLAY Matthew Richardson and Gerard Healy talking about Damien Hardwick’s contract

Tigers President Peggy O’Neal said the club prioritised stability and unity.

‘We considered that he was the right man to take us further,’ ONeal said.

‘After thorough analysis and discussion, the unanimous view was that Damien is the right man to coach our club.

‘Damien has the character and values we want in someone who leads our players.

‘The players have great respect for their coach and his approach to getting the best out of them.

Hardwick said he will work hard to repay the faith shown by the club.