Patrick Retschko is an emerging Australian Rules footballer who has generated excitement with his elite endurance and outside running ability.
After starting his AFL journey with the Geelong Cats, Retschko found a new home at the Richmond Football Club ahead of the 2026 season. Fans are eager to see if his impressive VFL form will translate into a regular spot in the Tigers’ senior lineup.
In this article, you will know Patrick Retschko’s Net worth, career earnings, career overview, stats, relationship, and more.
Patrick Retschko’s Biography
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Patrick Retschko |
| Date of Birth | February 28, 2006 |
| Age | 19 |
| Education | Caulfield Grammar School |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Height | 186 cm (6 ft 1 in) |
| Weight | Approx. 80 kg |
| Turned Pro | 2024 (Rookie Draft) |
| Net Worth | Approx. $120,000 (Estimated) |
| Salary | ~$115,000 – $130,000 (Base Rookie Salary) |
| Partner | N/A |
| Instagram Profile | @patrickretschko |
| Current Team | Richmond Football Club |
Early Career
Patrick Retschko developed his craft in the talent-rich pathways of Victoria. He played his junior football with St Kilda City and the East Malvern Knights before joining the Oakleigh Chargers in the Coates Talent League.
During his junior years, Retschko established himself as a relentless runner, possessing the aerobic capacity to outwork opponents late in games.
He attended Caulfield Grammar, where he balanced his studies with elite-level football commitments. His top-age year in 2024 was particularly standout; he represented Vic Metro in the National Championships and was a key contributor for the Chargers.
His draft stock rose significantly after the AFL Draft Combine, where he dominated the endurance testing, recording a blistering 6:07 in the 2km time trial.
This elite running ability caught the eye of recruiters, leading to his selection by the Geelong Cats with pick 23 in the 2024 AFL Rookie Draft.
Professional Career
Retschko began his professional career at Geelong in the 2025 season. While he did not break into the senior AFL side during his rookie year, he was a standout performer in the VFL. Playing 18 games for the Cats’ reserves, he averaged 21.5 disposals and showed an ability to hit the scoreboard, kicking 13 goals.
His consistency at the state league level proved he could find the football against bigger bodies and utilize his running power on the wing and half-back flanks.
Despite his strong VFL form, Geelong’s deep midfield squeezed Retschko out, leading to a surprising lifeline during the 2025 AFL Trade Period. In a late deal, he was traded to the Richmond Football Club in exchange for pick 99.
The move to Punt Road for the 2026 season offers Retschko a fresh start and a clearer pathway to an AFL debut, with the Tigers valuing his outside run and endurance as they look to inject youth into their midfield.
Patrick Retschko’s Net Worth Details
As of 2026, Patrick Retschko’s net worth is estimated to be approximately $120,000. As a young player on a rookie list who has recently entered the professional system, his wealth is primarily derived from his AFL base salary.
Contract
Patrick Retschko is currently on a rookie contract with the Richmond Football Club for the 2026 season. He joined the Tigers via a trade from Geelong in October 2025.
Rookie contracts in the AFL are typically one-year deals, meaning Retschko will be eager to perform in 2026 to earn a contract extension or an upgrade to the senior list.
Salary
For the 2026 season, Retschko’s salary is determined by the AFL’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for rookie players. His estimated base salary falls between $115,000 and $130,000.
While rookie base wages are modest compared to senior stars, he has the potential to earn additional match payments of roughly $5,000 for every senior AFL game he plays during the season.
Career Earnings
| Year | Club | Role | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Geelong Cats | Rookie List | ~$110,000 |
| 2026 | Richmond Tigers | Rookie List | ~$125,000 |
| Total | Career | – | ~$235,000 (Gross) |
Career Stats
| Season | Team (VFL) | Games | Avg Disposals | Goals | Avg Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Geelong VFL | 18 | 21.5 | 13 | 2.0 |
| AFL Career | Total | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0.0 |
FAQs
1. Which team does Patrick Retschko play?
Patrick Retschko plays for the Richmond Football Club. He joined the Tigers in October 2025 after spending his first season with the Geelong Cats.
2. How did Patrick Retschko get to Richmond?
He was traded from Geelong to Richmond on the final day of the 2025 Trade Period. Richmond sent pick 99 to Geelong to secure the young midfielder.
3. Has Patrick Retschko played an AFL game?
As of the beginning of the 2026 season, Patrick Retschko has not yet made his AFL debut. He played 18 VFL games for Geelong in 2025.
4. What are Patrick Retschko’s strengths?
Retschko is known for his elite endurance and running capacity. He recorded a 6:07 2km time trial at the Draft Combine and is a high-production outside runner who can find the football and hit the scoreboard.
5. What is Patrick Retschko’s net worth?
His estimated net worth in 2026 is around $120,000, largely accumulated from his rookie salaries at Geelong and Richmond.
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