Club Confirms Balta Will Play in the VFL
Richmond coach Adem Yze has addressed the ongoing situation regarding star defender Noah Balta’s availability, confirming the club’s decision to have him play in the VFL rather than risk complications during their AFL clash against GWS. “We’d be getting a bit cute if we did that,” Yze said, referring to the option of giving Balta limited game time in the senior match to ensure he met his court-ordered 10pm curfew. “We don’t want to mess with that.”
Legal Sentence Impacts AFL Selection
The Tigers are scheduled to face Greater Western Sydney at 4:15pm on Saturday in Sydney. However, Balta will instead participate in the VFL curtain-raiser at 12:30pm to meet his curfew obligation, a condition stemming from a legal sentence related to an assault case. This adjustment ensures he remains match-fit without putting team performance or disciplinary compliance at risk.
Decision Driven by Practicality and Respect
Yze made it clear the decision was not about undermining the importance of Balta’s situation. Rather, it was based on a mix of performance management and logistical practicality. “It wasn’t to disrespect what he’s going through,” he explained, “it was just around performance and whether we could keep the momentum of him playing.” With no guarantee of making it home in time after a senior game, the VFL fixture became the club’s most viable solution.
Risk of Injury Factored into Strategy
“We looked at the option of playing him in the seniors and getting him back on time, but it was just going to be too risky,” Yze elaborated. Subbing him off early would not only disrespect the legal ruling but also jeopardize the team in the event of an injury. “There could be risk that someone else gets injured and then we’re putting others at risk.”
VFL Appearance Keeps Balta in Form
Balta’s enforced absence already saw him miss the ANZAC Eve game against Melbourne. This week’s fixture is expected to be the final game impacted by the curfew this season. Nonetheless, the coaching staff stressed the importance of maintaining Balta’s physical and mental readiness. “He needs to play,” said Yze, noting how fluctuating in and out of the senior lineup is both physically and mentally stressful.
Welfare and Compliance Equally Important
“His wellbeing is really important as well,” Yze continued. “To go in and out of AFL footy is really tough. You see that with injuries.” The early VFL match enables Balta to play competitively, help mentor younger defenders, and return home on a separate flight before curfew. “He’ll travel with the team, go help our younger defenders in the VFL and get another game into him.”
Club Maintains Performance-First Philosophy
Yze emphasized that this was the only game where they considered the logistics so closely, reaffirming that the move wasn’t about minimizing Balta’s legal obligations. “It was just around performance and if we can get a game into him, we’ll do that.” VFL coach Jake Batchelor also expressed his satisfaction with Balta’s availability, which could be beneficial for the team’s development focus.
A Calculated Move to Support Future Matches
This calculated approach reflects Richmond’s commitment to both performance and player welfare. As Yze summed it up: “It’ll give him a better chance at performing the following week. We looked at that and we’ll do that.” With Balta gearing up for a VFL appearance, the Tigers are ensuring he stays sharp, compliant, and ready to return to the AFL field when circumstances allow.
