In a recent Coaches’ Corner (Summer Snippets) segment on the Club’s website, Richmond assistant coach Adam Kingsley had this to say about the season 2022 prospects of talented Tiger cub Hugo Ralphsmith . . .
“Our expectations around Hugo this year are to establish himself his position in the team, whether that’s half-back, whether it’s wing, or half-forward. He’s got to find his position and really hold on to it.
“The contest part of the game is Hugo’s room for improvement, and he’s certainly been working hard on that over the summer and improved significantly in that part of the game.
“His ability to run and carry and kick the ball and mark it is really impressive and they continue to stand out across the course of the pre-season . . .
“We see him as that half-forward/half-back type of player, possibly on the wing. And he was able to show a bit last year in those positions.
“So, we’re hoping that he continues to progress and establish his position in the team and is able to have a real impact for us this year.
“It’s his third year in the Club now, so we’re expecting him to take a step forward and start to build his career.”
Given what Ralphsmith showed throughout last Saturday’s practice match against Geelong at GMHBA Stadium, it’s fair to assume he’s right on track to take a substantial step forward this season.
The 20-year-old, who made his senior debut with the Tigers last season and played six games all-up, was one of the key positives out of the trial game from a Yellow and Black perspective.
He showcased his skill set in a rebounding role across half-back and finished with 15 disposals and four marks.
It was a display that likely would have strengthened his claims for a place in Richmond’s senior side for the Round 1 clash with Carlton on March 17.
