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Player Profile

24 Russell Robertson

 
Details
Number24
Height187cm
Weight91kg
DOB24-11-1978
Debut1997 - Rd 20
GamesGoals
2010020100
Career228Career428
Dreamteam Points
20100Go to Dream Team
In 1996, Russell Robertson was brought to the attention of the wider footballing world when his marking prowess triumphed in the Footy Show’s ‘Almost Football Legends’ segment. He was already well known to those who mattered in the business, and in 1997, made his way to the mainland to play for Melbourne.
However, his start was fraught with anxiety, as he was cut from the senior list, and placed on the rookie list. He played most of the season in the Reserves, before the retirement of ruckman Dean Irving. This opened the way for Robertson, and he played the last three games of the year. He was on his way. The Club’s 1997 Yearbook reflected his progress, with the coaching writeup stating of the then No. 42:
‘Proved a huge find by the end of the year after struggling early. Russell did everything that was asked of him. He is a good mark for his size, aggressive and a livewire and after being put back to the rookie list was upgraded following good form in the seconds. He has taken one big step – from winning The Footy Show’s mark of the year in 1996 to senior football this year – and now has to take the next step to become a regular senior player.’
 ‘Robbo’ gave his all to the Melbourne Football Club. It was always said of him that he wears his heart on his sleeve. His enthusiasm soared as high as his marking, and he was always able to take the breath away with moments that will remain treasures. They ranged from the last minute winning point against Hawthorn in 1999, to the many screamers fulfilling his ‘licence to fly’, the hugs, the finger twirls – and the Best and Fairest in 2003, second place in 2005, and much commitment and dedication besides. No matter what the achievements, however, Robertson saw himself as ‘a kid from Tassie trying to do the best job I can.’
Early in his career, Robertson described his early career as a rollercoaster ride – but one that he was glad to be on. Complete with a sense of adventure and love of the Melbourne Football Club, it is fitting that Robertson was named one of the Club’s ‘Heroes’ during its 150th birthday in 2008. He finished his career alongside Matthew Whelan and Paul Wheatley as the final siren sounded on Season 2009, accompanied by the well wishes and appreciation of all who shared the ride, whether playing alongside him, or watching from the stands.

At a Glance

  • Junior Clubs:
  • Clubs:
  • Debut: 1997 - Rd 20
  • Recruited from: Burnie Dockers/Tas U18
  • AFL Awards:
  • Club Awards:
  • Brownlow Votes:
DisposalsMarksStoppagesFreesGeneral playScoring
 
1
L 61 - 117
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2
L 86 - 85
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3
W 57 - 41
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W 78 - 133
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W 103 - 53
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L 104 - 78
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L 66 - 70
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L 46 - 75
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W 111 - 110
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L 121 - 67
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11
L 101 - 60
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D 76 - 76
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L 117 - 73
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L 100 - 65
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W 122 - 103
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L 82 - 71
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W 142 - 69
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News

How TV made Robbo a star

Long before singing with Kate Ceberano, a cameo on The Footy Show launched Russell Robertson's careerThursday, August 20, 2009 - 4:25PM

Demons will help Robbo find club

Melbourne coach Dean Bailey says the club will do all it can to help Russell Robertson continue in the AFL at another clubThursday, August 20, 2009 - 2:00PM

Robertson's future unclear for now

Coach Dean Bailey says the club will make a decision on veteran forward Russell Robertson's future at the end of the yearWednesday, July 22, 2009 - 1:50PM

Dees to look to Freo's tactics

Assistant coach Sean Wellman says his side will replicate Fremantle's ball movement through the midfield against West Coast on SundaySunday, May 10, 2009 - 11:16AM

Robbo returns, with achilles healed

A positive mindset was crucial for Melbourne veteran Russell Robertson in his comeback from injuryFriday, May 01, 2009 - 3:11PM

Video

Robbo to return for Dees

Russell Robertson will make his long-awaited return from his achilles injuryFriday, May 01, 2009 - 12:33PM

Important Message from Russell Robertson

Get the message from Robbo, and join up todaySaturday, May 03, 2008 - 7:58AM

MELBOURNEfc Membership Telethon

Jared Rivers catches up with his teammates and coaches at MELBOURNEfcs Membership Telethon. Friday, May 02, 2008 - 2:03PM

MELBOURNEfc Membership Telethon

Jared Rivers catches up with his teammates and coaches at MELBOURNEfcs Membership Telethon. Friday, May 02, 2008 - 2:03PM

Rd 11: Russell Robertson Interview

We catch up with seven goal hero Russell Robertson, after the win over arch enemy Collingwood. Tuesday, June 12, 2007 - 1:09PM

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