Talented, young Richmond defender Luke Trainor’s start to his AFL career has captured the imagination of the Tiger Army, coaches and teammates alike.

Trainor, who was taken by the Tigers with their fourth pick (No. 21 overall) in the 2024 AFL national draft, has made a seamless transition to the game’s highest level.

Three rounds in, the 18-year-old (he turns 19 on April 10), is averaging 14.3 disposals, 4.3 contested marks, 4.3 marks, 3.0 one-percenters, 2.0 rebound-50s, 2.0 inside-50s, 2.7 intercepts and 314.0 metres gained per match.

He is ranked second among the competition’s rising stars for metres gained, second for one-percenters, third for kicks, third for marks, fourth for rebound-50s, fourth for intercepts and sixth for total disposals.

Trainor was a shining light for Richmond in the Round 3 loss to St Kilda at Marvel Stadium with 18 disposals, seven contested possessions, six marks, four intercepts and 260 metres gained.

“Luke Trainor looked like an AFL footballer today. He looks like he’s so calm at the level. He’s playing with some real spunk, which is good,” Richmond coach Adem Yze said in his post-game press conference.

Two-time Tiger premiership small defender Jayden Short paid a glowing tribute to Trainor in a post-match interview with Richmond Media.

“He’s been amazing. The impact he’s had coming into the team, his energy, his ability and his want to learn, it’s been second to none,” Short said.

“I love running out with him, I’m rapt that he’s playing, and I just can’t wait to play a lot more games with him.”