[1] Following strong performances at senior level, Rich was regarded by many observers as a potential top-two selection in the months leading up to the draft.

[3] He was rewarded for an outstanding first-year season with the 2009 NAB Rising Star award, being only the second Rising Star winner to poll maximum votes from all 9 judges; he also created history by becoming the third consecutive player to be drafted at pick seven and win the award.

Following a stellar first season, Rich added bulk to his frame over the 2010 pre-season and established himself as a key component of the Lions midfield in 2010.

Rich played his 100th AFL game against Geelong in Round 2, 2014, but he suffered a season-ending ACL injury in the loss to the Gold Coast Suns the following week.

[11] Rich was educated in Western Australia, attending secondary schooling at Sacred Heart College, Sorrento.