Farewell LRT

[neilfws]

Roberts-Thomson retires - sydneyswans.com.au (http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/2014-08-14/robertsthomson-retires)

"Swans fans will have the opportunity to pay tribute to Roberts-Thomson this Saturday at the SCG, when he will walk a lap of honour at half time of the Swans clash with St Kilda."

[Reggi]

What a player

[tasswan]

Definitely a fan favourite and was pivotal in the 2012 GF.

Epitomised what i love about the Swans, fearless player that gave 110%

[DK_]

He was a champ. All heart and effort!

I can't remember which key forward said it, but one of my favourite quotes went along the lines of "I should have learnt by now, but every time I see LRT come to me looking like a skinny mop, something inside me says 'this is going to be too easy', but he beats me every time".

Perennially under-rated, but part of the hard core of our team for a long time.

[dimelb]

He was a champ. All heart and effort!

I can't remember which key forward said it, but one of my favourite quotes went along the lines of "I should have learnt by now, but every time I see LRT come to me looking like a skinny mop, something inside me says 'this is going to be too easy', but he beats me every time".

Perennially under-rated, but part of the hard core of our team for a long time.

Thanks DK_, I hadn't seen that remark and it is a fitting tribute to a much-loved player. TwoDads, The Hyphenator, LRT or simply Lewie. Memorable player, got the best out of himself and a fine contributor over the years. I wish him the best of success in whatever he does. Now I will have to find a new favourite Swan.

[barry]

Lets be honest with ourselves. Many on here bagged LRT during his career.

But, if there was ever a player who lifted himself in finals, and played an instrumental roles getting to and winning the 2005 and 2012 premierships is was our LRT.

Malthouse described him as "a bueaty" in the 2012 final series. Not for flashy skills, but his dogged, never give up attitude. Exactly what finals footy needs.

LRT forged the path for Sydney born, other-code playing players, forging a long and distinguished career in AFL, through mental strength.

The exact opposite of Izzy Folau.

- - - Updated - - -

The question now needs to be answered.... can we win a grand final without him?

[Doctor]

Well played Mr Football. 2 time Premiership player, near Norm Smith medallist in 05, legend. I'll remember him as much for his first kick in footy, a miskicked grubber along centre wing on the Brewongle side of the SCG, as for his never say die attitude, his willingness to play wherever the coaching staff needed him to and his friendliness with the fans.

If I ever run into you in a pub somewhere, I'll buy you a beer.

[Plugger46]

I was definitely one of those knockers at different stages throughout his career.

Won me forever in the 2012 QF when he was thrown into defence after playing forward all year.

Solid career and pivotal on GF day. Twice.

[CJK]

A sad day. One of mu favorites, will never forget him towling up Matthew Richardson a number of times at the SCG. Oh how we all laughed at 'Richo'.

And the Granny in '05. Never forget.

Here's to you Two Names.

[Dave]

Farewell Bob-Thom and thanks for everything. Champion.

[mcs]

Farewell LRT - a sad day for our club, but also a day to celebrate a mighty fine career.

So often under-rated, and even mocked by many outside the Swans Community, he is the epitome of what it is to be a blood. He squeezed every ounce of talent and hard work out of his body - and he has all the just rewards for it, with not 1 but 2 Premiership Medals on the mantle piece. Many on here argue (and I agree) that he could easily have also won a Norm Smith Medal in 05 - his contribution to breaking the drought was immense.

A 'champion' player our LRT has been, not because he's been the best player in the competition, or single handed won games for us - but because he put everything he could into his football, and made so much of his career.

I wish I could be there on Saturday to give him a standing ovation on his lap of honour - the least I could do for a player who has given plenty of Swans fans a lot of joy over the year.

At least my last game seeing him play live will be a good memory - away to Adelaide earlier this year. He didn't get a lot of ball that day, or do anything fancy, but as always, he was super effective and did his role to a tee.

:clap: LRT on a wonderful career!

[Doctor]

Big week for two-time Premiership Swans. One of them announces he's had his last go and the other announces he's having at least one go a day for a month.

[Robtorq]

Great tributes guys. As has been said allready let's celebrate. Pity I will not be in Sydney to farewell the champ. Give him a big farewell all who go. He should have won the Norm Smith in 05. I remember talking to him that night. He was standing by himself on the sidelines very quiet and humble but on that ground he was a true swan and blood

[RogueSwan]

...But, if there was ever a player who lifted himself in finals, and played an instrumental roles getting to and winning the 2005 and 2012 premierships is was our LRT...

I had the pleasure of meeting Jude at the local pub last week. Just me, my son and a few others from the local footy team. We got to talking about LRT and his first line was "ahhh, the September Specialist".:adore

Congrats on a fine career LRT.

[Untamed Snark]

Aw, I'll miss Mr Football
Always found that little bit extra when it was needed, never the star but the guy who's game let allowed others to be the star
True blood all the way through.

One last rousing "LRT" chant coming this Saturday :frown:

[Plugger1300]

Huge in 05
One of my best memories was sitting behind am ignorant Hawks supporter in the 2012 GF as he berated LRT for being an average footballer. Then watching LRT play a cracker as i cheered everytime he went near.
Hugely underrated especially as a finals player

[Ardent Swan]

AS GRANDPARENTS OF LRT we are very proud of his career with the Swans . Always gave his best. Retires with 2 premiership medals the most coveted prize for all footballers
Love you for all the great times you have given us watching on tv

[jono2707]

LRT was the personification of what it now is to be a Swan. Hard at it, fair, gutsy, and squeezing every bit out of himself and doing what was required for the team week in week out. And as he was a local boy us Sydney people have felt a bit more of an affinity with guys like LRT too.

Well done.

[aardvark]

Will always be one of my favorite players. Good luck Lewie and thanks for the memories.:smile:

[ShockOfHair]

That great moment in the highlights package where Hodge tried to run through him. Sums up LRT's career. Perennially under-rated.

A favourite of mine for being a hidden gem who always did his job and one of the nicest blokes on and off the field.

[Margo]

Every good wish for his future. Entertaining, memorable, strong and determined. Definitely deserves to be called Champion.

[top40]

Huge in 05
One of my best memories was sitting behind am ignorant Hawks supporter in the 2012 GF as he berated LRT for being an average footballer. Then watching LRT play a cracker as i cheered everytime he went near.
Hugely underrated especially as a finals player

LRT had a wonderful habit of playing his best games in big finals. Witness the 05 and 12 Grannies, as well as the 2008 Elimination Final against North, and the 2012 Qualifying Final win against the Crows.

Also great to state that he is a Sydney boy, born and bred. The first VFL/AFL Premiership player to play his entire career in Sydney.

[Red]

I was kind of hoping he'd get wheeled out for the finals, just to spin opposition teams out :)

Farewell LRT. Champion. Cult figure. September specialist. Soft-haired barbarian. The original Rugby Union convert and still the best.

We knew this day was coming fast but I'm still a little bummed about it. So I think I'll buy myself one of these, to lift my spirits: http://www.lrtees.com.au/

[magic.merkin]

Can't really say too much more.

people expect too much from every player. KPP that can go forward and back, ruck don;t have to be world beaters. Their value is in the flexibility, work rate and effort. This doesn't mean he didnt win his fair share of contests and days against opponents though. Tough, fair and accountable. Stood up when it mattered.

Thanks for the memories you softly spoken gem.

[Mel_C]

Loved watching LRT in those 2 grand finals.

He had a crash bang attitude with no fear for his body.

Those that are at the game please cheer loud for me!!

[Swansinger]

Presently , the only Swan to win three premierships :D!

LRT , you have been a cracker and are a significant part of club legend. Well done !! And thank you .

[Conor_Dillon]

I'll never forget those back-with-the-flight marks in the dying stages of quarter four in the 2012 decider...he drops even one of those and we may not have won the flag. LRT will be talked about as much in the future as any of our other champions from this current era...the ultimate cult hero! Farewell legend.

[ernie koala]

Great player, comes across as a humble fellow.

Loved his physical, combative style.

One of our most consistent finals players. As Horse says...No greater compliment than to be remembered as a big game player.

Fantastic career. Well done Lewie.

[Jewels]

AS GRANDPARENTS OF LRT we are very proud of his career with the Swans . Always gave his best. Retires with 2 premiership medals the most coveted prize for all footballers
Love you for all the great times you have given us watching on tv

You must be very, very proud of your grandson, both for the wonderful spirit that he showed on the park and the true gentleman he was off it.

Congrats on a stellar career Lewie, you are much loved and will be much missed.

[ScottH]

AS GRANDPARENTS OF LRT we are very proud of his career with the Swans . Always gave his best. Retires with 2 premiership medals the most coveted prize for all footballers
Love you for all the great times you have given us watching on tv

He was a true ugly duckling story!!

Some of those tackles in the highlights package were worth more than goals!!

[Swanny40519]

Well done to a great team player. He would always be relied upon to perform to his best no matter what position he was given.

I was fortunate to see LRT in the 2005, 06 and 12 GF and I thought in all three games he was brilliant. Gave 110% for his team and in 2005 and 2012 was one on the best on the ground.

Congratulations LRT, I will give you a standing ovation this Saturday for a great SWAN.

[Doctor J.]

Cant add much more to this.

Mr. September says it all really.

[Reggi]

For the record, 17 finals 11 wins 6 losses. Jude Bolton 26 14 wins 12 losses.

LRT amazing record

[ramblingjon]

For what its worth, i have been lurking around this website for a while. NSW boy who spent the past ten years in Perth and has been in Mike Pykes home country for the past 8 months. Decided to register today, so that i could add my two cents regarding LRT. I was living in WA 2005 and 2006 and constantly berated by eagles fans regarding us "stealing" what was rightfully there and there were also plenty of LRT haters.
His game in that 2005 GF should have won him the Norm Smith, it was a phenomenal effort and indicative of him being called mr September. in addition, the highlights reel showing him putting his body on the line in the 2012 GF are indicative of the performances he wholeheartedly put in. A very worthy 2 time premiership player. Saluting him from Canada.
cheers

[gossipcom]

Thanks for the memories LRT. All the best in the future!

[ShockOfHair]

Lots of love for Lewie:

LRT's retirement: The fans' tale - sydneyswans.com.au (http://www.sydneyswans.com.au/news/2014-08-14/lrt-the-fans-tale)

[RogueSwan]

...LRT will be talked about as much in the future as any of our other champions from this current era...the ultimate cult hero! Farewell legend.

Do I dare?
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How about the LRTM Scott?
Maybe for a season?

[Untamed Snark]

As a new award.
For the player each game that goes above and beyond expectations.
Not necessarily the BOG but plays 110%for team

[i'm-uninformed2]

How many players finish their career knowing they were among the BOG in two winning GFs?

[Sandridge]

Thanks LRT for being such a huge part of the 2 Premiership Cups I never thought I'd see!

I know its not our home game but any chance of a lap of honour for us Melbourne based fans at the Bulldogs game August 24?

[Auntie.Gerald]

it was always easy to love the courage and effort that LRT displayed week in week out !!!

[Bloody Hell]

Congrats to LRT.

[wolftone57]

Was robbed of the Norm Smith in 2005. In fact they were talking about that on SEN the other day so my nephew told me and all agreed that LRT should have won the Norm Smith that day but Judd was given it as a consolation. I think LRT has been a great personality, friend and wonderful person to every Swans member, supporter. Good luck mate I hope your life after footy is fulfilling.

[ScottH]

His team mates love him. Selfless is one of the main descriptions that is used.
Plenty of love on twitter and instagram from them for him.

[barry]

Was robbed of the Norm Smith in 2005. In fact they were talking about that on SEN the other day so my nephew told me and all agreed that LRT should have won the Norm Smith that day but Judd was given it as a consolation. I think LRT has been a great personality, friend and wonderful person to every Swans member, supporter. Good luck mate I hope your life after footy is fulfilling.


Its debatable if he did enough to win the norm smith. He would have been ahead at half time, but did fade a bit in the second half.

If there was a medal for "greatest lift from perceived abilities in a grand final" then LRT would have won it. Maybe they should make a new award .. "The LRT".

Canadian Mike Pyke would have won it in 2012.

[undy]

I don't think I've been so sad about a retirement since Kelly retired.

[dimelb]

I don't think I've been so sad about a retirement since Kelly retired.

Agree. And that's a fair measure of the man.

[Plugger1300]

A few ahead of LRT in 2005
Amon and Fossy.
Not taking anything away from him though

[Meg]

This is a particularly nice tribute.

A salute to Lewis Roberts-Thomson | Augusta-Margaret River Mail (http://www.margaretrivermail.com.au/story/2490067/a-salute-to-lewis-roberts-thomson/?cs=12)

[dimelb]

Thanks Meg, I do like Martin Flanagan's pieces. And what on earth were you doing reading the Augusta-Margaret River Mail?!

It'll probably be in tomorrow's Age, along with a very funny bit from Greg Baum on Robin Williams.

[Meg]

And what on earth were you doing reading the Augusta-Margaret River Mail?.

Ah ha! No Swans reference escapes my beady eye.

[707]

I must admit to moist eyes reading all the tributes from team mates.

LRT was highly effective and will be rightly remembered as a big game player. Probably wouldn't have won either flag without him and his effort in the first final against Adelaide in 2012 should not go unnoticed.

I hope your life post footy is as richly rewarding as you time as a Blood Brother. We'll miss you LRT. There, I'm tearing up again!

[Velour&Ruffles]

AS GRANDPARENTS OF LRT we are very proud of his career with the Swans . Always gave his best. Retires with 2 premiership medals the most coveted prize for all footballers
Love you for all the great times you have given us watching on tv

I'm thrilled that you posted and hope you will allow me to thank you for your procreative proclivities - they have (indirectly at least) given me a vast amount of pleasure.

I was on holiday in Byron Bay in 2001 when the papers reported that the Swans were taking a zone selection with a very posh name who was (reportedly) 195cm. I was excited because it was a lovely holiday and for most of my supporting life we have been a team of midgets (how times have changed). Consequently I always took a special interest in following the progress of the gangly hyphen.

And he always gave me ample return for that interest. His height varied every year - from 193 up to 198 cm and back again. On the field, there was a forward cameo in the legendary 2003 QF, his much-noted heroics in the 2005 GF, his evolution into a fearlessly physical pressure player with crunching front-on tackles few players are capable of, his sly transition from a spoiler to an outstanding contested mark, and a ruckman, a running linkman, a human battering ram in the 2012 glory ....and none of it with anything other than a slightly gawky, self-deprecating smile.

I don't believe in presuming to speak on behalf of others, but I would be thrilled if you would tell your grandson that this Swans supporter holds him in the highest regard. He will forever be one of my favourites.

[ScottH]

For what its worth, i have been lurking around this website for a while. NSW boy who spent the past ten years in Perth and has been in Mike Pykes home country for the past 8 months. Decided to register today, so that i could add my two cents regarding LRT. I was living in WA 2005 and 2006 and constantly berated by eagles fans regarding us "stealing" what was rightfully there and there were also plenty of LRT haters.
His game in that 2005 GF should have won him the Norm Smith, it was a phenomenal effort and indicative of him being called mr September. in addition, the highlights reel showing him putting his body on the line in the 2012 GF are indicative of the performances he wholeheartedly put in. A very worthy 2 time premiership player. Saluting him from Canada.
cheers

Welcome to the site mate!!

Agree with all you've said.