Mitch Robinson and Jack Riewoldt to make Tasmanian football returns in consecutive weeks

Two of Tasmania’s most well-known former AFL players will play in the Tasmanian State League in consecutive weeks with Jack Riewoldt taking to the track with his Clarence teammates. See the vision.

Ryan Rosendale and James Bresnehan

2 min read

May 8, 2024 - 9:39AM

News Corp Australia Sports Newsroom

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The TSL is set for a huge boost over the next two weeks with three-time Richmond premiership player Jack Riewoldt and Brisbane Lions hard man Mitch Robinson returning to the clubs that laid the foundations for their long AFL careers.

Lauderdale recruit Mitch Robinson will return to the club he was originally drafted from for the 2024 TSL season. Picture: Supplied.

Robinson will play for Lauderdale in its round seven clash with 2023 premiers Kingborough at Lauderdale Oval on Saturday, while Riewoldt will play in Clarence’s clash with Lauderdale at Blundstone Arena in round eight next Friday night.

The return of two of Tasmania’s most successful AFL players is a major boost for the local football scene with both players to technically make their Tasmanian State League debuts given the competition began after they were drafted.

Lauderdale’s football director Phil Giffard said the club was thrilled to have locked in Robinson’s return for such a big game.

“He’s a product of our volunteer, community-based creation, so yeah, we’re ecstatic,” Giffard said.

“Similar story with Andrew Phillips and the fact that they’re finishing their careers with us is sensational.”

Robinson was initially locked in for every home game this season and despite missing the opening three, Giffard said the intent was for Robinson to play enough games to qualify for finals – should the Bombers make it.

The return of Robinson means Lauderdale will have as many as five former AFL-listed players in its line-up this week with playing coach Allen Christensen, Andrew Phillips, Sam Siggins and Josh McGuinness also expected to take on the Tigers.

Back at Rooland – Jack Riewoldt and his father Chris, who also played for Clarence. Picture supplied

While Riewoldt won’t return until next week, he trained alongside Clarence teammates on Tuesday night with coach Peter Ryan praising his desire to immerse himself back into the club he was drafted from.

“It’s really exciting for the club,” he said.

“Jack’s really looking forward to the game and giving back to the club and being able to play one last game, potentially, it Tassie.

“He was keen and eager to get out and have a kick with the group and our players were really receptive of that as well.”

With Bryce Alomes kicking eight goals last weekend, Ryan said there was still plenty of room for another gun forward in the Roos’ attack.

“We’ve got some really good weapons up there and we’ll structure it accordingly,” he said.

“There won’t be any smoke and mirrors – we’ll play Jack out of the goalsquare and Bryce and Josh Green and Jake Cox will be other options for us up forward.”

Originally published as Mitch Robinson and Jack Riewoldt to make Tasmanian football returns in consecutive weeks