Richmond has used its fourth selection, No. 21 overall at tonight’s Telstra AFL Draft to welcome 194cm defender Luke Trainor.

The youngster impressed in recent years with excellent performances for Sandringham Dragons, Brighton Grammar, Vic Metro and the AFL Academy.

An elite reader of the ball and strong contested mark, Trainor is also able to get involved on offence with his damaging foot skills.

Richmond Victorian Recruiting Manager, Rhy Gieschen said that Trainor was a player who consistently intercepted the ball.

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“Luke is a strong mark, is courageous in the air and is a very smart decision maker, knowing when to drop off and to stay defensively diligent,” he said.

“He averaged 2.4 intercept marks per game in the Coates Talent League, and also six ground ball intercepts which is impressive.”

The athletic tall defender averaged 19.8 disposals at 77 per cent in the National Championships, earning All Australian honours.

“Luke also enjoys getting involved offensively as he can really open up the game with his ability to find targets by foot,” Gieschen added.

“He has a rare combination of aerial prowess and toughness but also class and skill. We are really pleased to be able to bring him to Richmond.”

Trainor is the grandson of VFL legend Doug Wade, who booted 1057 goals in an incredible career for Geelong and North Melbourne.

The key defender will join his Sandringham Dragons teammate Taj Hotton at the Club next year, who was selected at pick No. 12 overall.