Shaun Hampson believes the competition for the No. 1 ruck position within Richmond’s line-up has played a significant role in his improved form this year.
Hampson has maintained his place in the senior side right throughout the season so far, with veteran big man Ivan Maric predominantly consigned to VFL duties after recovering from a severe back complaint.
Maric has managed just two appearances at senior level in 2016, while Hampson has played 11 games, missing one through injury (Round 5 v Melbourne).
Considering the fact the most games Hampson has played in a season during his decade-long AFL career at both Carlton and Richmond is 15, you can appreciate just how much he’s thriving on the stability of regular senior action with the Tigers this year.
“Ivvy’s been playing really well, as he does, and that pressure’s always there, which is probably even more incentive to keep playing well,” Hampson said at a Punt Road press conference earlier today.
“He’s just such a great team man. It’s competitive at training, but I think it helps to improve the both of us . . .
“I’m relatively happy (with my form), but I still think there is a lot of improvement in my game. I see a lot of upside.
“I think I’m playing okay now, but I want to be going better.
“I had both ankles reconstructed at the end of last year . . . The start of the season was a little bit tough coming off no pre-season.
“The body took a month or two to adjust, but I find I’m pulling up better and better after games and nothing serious is going on, which is nice . . .
“I’m just a lot stronger through my legs, more stable . . .”
Hampson is ranked seventh in the competition for total hit-outs this season, and his ability to constantly get first hands to the ball at centre bounces, as well as stoppages around the ground, has been a boon for the likes of Trent Cotchin, Dustin Martin, Anthony Miles and Shaun Grigg through the Tigers’ midfield.
