Star key defender Alex Rance’s value to the Richmond side goes beyond his individual on-field brilliance.

The Tigers’ emerging small backman Jayden Short credits Rance with playing a prominent role in his own improvement throughout the 2016 season.

After making his senior league debut early this season as a small forward, Short has developed into a valuable contributor across Richmond’s backline. 

 “I certainly have learned a lot off ‘Rancey’,” Short said on ‘Sports Day’.

“I’ve only been down there (in defence) for about 10 weeks now and I’m learning new things every single day,” Short said on ‘Sports Day’.

“He’s such a great teacher . . . he’s always got these new tips.

“He gets the best out of himself every week and he wants the best out of us.

“He’s only making us better, which is amazing.”