Cotchin has had long conversations withBarty,who is a lifelong Richmond fan,over the years about her career and life plans but was still taken aback by the reality of the moment when it finally came.
“I was not necessarily surprised,although you don’t necessarily believe it to be true until it happens,” Cotchin toldThe Age and The Sydney Morning Herald.
“I did talk to her a number of times about this and life across a number of years,[but] I have left her be since yesterday morning knowing things are probably a little hectic.
“I’m incredibly proud of Ash,obviously of her achievements and getting the absolute best out of herself but more importantly her growth and willingness to live true to her values.
“She is one of the most humble and inspiring people that I have met,and I feel grateful to have learnt so much from her.”
As for the idea of another career switch,even if Richmond’s former skipper advised against it,Tigers coach Damien Hardwick said he was sure that Barty would excel if she played AFLW.