Australian rules footballer who played for Melbourne and Richmond in the Australian Football League, known for his speed and agility on the field.
Ricky Petterd, a former professional Australian rules footballer, is known for his remarkable journey in the Australian Football League (AFL), marked by triumphs, setbacks, and a remarkable display of resilience. Born on July 24, 1988, Petterd played for the Melbourne Football Club and Richmond Football Club, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
The talented midfielder was drafted to Melbourne with the 30th overall pick in the 2006 national draft, and his senior debut in round 5 of 2007 was nothing short of sensational. Petterd's impressive performance, which included 22 disposals, earned him a spot in the Demons' best player list and an AFL Rising Star nomination in round 6.
However, Petterd's promising start was marred by a season-ending injury in round 14 of 2007, which left him fighting for his life. During a game against Carlton, he collapsed on the field, unable to breathe, and was rushed to the change rooms, where club doctors performed an emergency procedure to puncture his chest wall, allowing air to escape from his chest cavity and saving his life. This life-threatening incident was followed by surgery to repair his ruptured lung.
Despite this setback, Petterd continued to face challenges, suffering another season-ending injury with Melbourne in May 2010, when he dislocated his right shoulder, requiring surgery and a four-month recovery period.
In 2013, Petterd joined Richmond as a rookie, marking a fresh start for the determined footballer. He played 12 games in his first season, averaging 17 disposals and five marks per game, earning himself a spot on the senior list at the 2013 national draft.
Throughout his AFL career, Petterd played 54 matches with Melbourne and 30 with Richmond, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and dedication. His courageous spirit and determination to overcome adversity have inspired countless fans and fellow athletes.
In September 2015, Petterd announced his retirement from the AFL, citing an ongoing foot injury. While his playing career may have come to an end, his contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come.
Ricky Petterd's remarkable journey in the AFL is a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication to the sport. His courageous comeback from life-threatening injuries and his perseverance in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark on Australian rules football.
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