Former Richmond big man Ben Griffiths has officially signed a playing contract with the University of Southern California as a punter, after announcing his decision to quit AFL earlier this year.
Griffiths was offered a scholarship by the university earlier this year, and has been training with ProKick Australia, a kicking academy run by former AFL player turned NFL punter Nathan Chapman, which has produced the last five punter of the year award-winners in college football.
The 27-year old played 63 games for the Tigers in eight seasons, booting 42 goals.
He announced his decision to quit football in January 2018, saying it was a "difficult decision to make, but ultimately the opportunity was too good to refuse.”
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“It certainly wasnt something I had been contemplating and only arose two weeks ago,” said Griffiths at the time of the announcement.
Griffiths shocked the football club when he informed them of his decision, noting the difficulty of informing his teammates and coaches.
Neil Balme, Richmonds head of football, said the news came as a shock: "coming in to season 2018, we expected Ben to put together a strong pre-season and again feature as a forward target for us."
“However, we understand this opportunity was too good for him to say no to and we support his decision."
Writing in Players Voice, Griffiths said the Tigers 2017 flag was his best moment in football, despite not being part of the winning side on grand final day.
“It was the greatest moment Ive been part of in footy. I wont forget the smile on David Astburys face for as long as I live,” he said.
Griffiths, who was introduced by his new coach to teammates as a professional rugby player, said Australian players in American football were still a “mystery to the locals,” saying his teammates “seemed convinced Id been playing a cross between rugby and soccer”.
The college football season begins in August 2019.
Paul is a reporter for The Age.
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