Promising Richmond recruit Sydney Stack continues to make an exciting first impression as a Tiger.
Stack was prolific in Saturday night’s win over the Swans at Marvel Stadium, racking up 22 disposals, nine of which were contested, 16 handballs and five marks.
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The tough-natured utility rose to the occasion, showing maturity and skill beyond his years.
Stack’s journey to Tigerland was well-documented, with the 18-year-old selected as part of the new Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period after being overlooked in the 2018 National Draft.
He put in the hard yards to secure his place on Richmond’s list, and has since developed in spades.
The youngster told Channel 7 after the match he was “a bit embarrassed” to miss draft selection last year.
After gaining a Round 3 debut and now three consecutive outings in the Yellow and Black, however, he has well and truly proven himself.
“I had the attitude to embrace the Club and get around all the legend players like Riewoldt and Rancey, and they really helped me out with setting up, playing footy and knowing my role,” he said.
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Stack, who played mainly through the midfield in his formative years, credited his Tiger teammates for helping him settle into Richmond’s backline.
“In the backline, I found it a bit difficult at the start, but my teammates really got around me and made me feel welcome at the Club,” he said.
Stack has, in turn, lifted his teammates, with senior coach Damien Hardwick lauding Stack and Jack Ross’ intensity at the contest as motivation for the side.
“It’s inspirational, and all of a sudden, everyone starts to go ‘well, if they’re doing it, we’re doing it’,” Hardwick said.
