He is one of Richmond’s stars, but Brett Deledio sees himself as a player still learning his craft.
Fresh from another impressive season for the Tigers, in which he averaged 24 disposals and finished fourth in the Jack Dyer Medal, the 26-year-old was happy, but not overly satisfied, with his overall performance in 2013.
“My season was probably a bit up and down at times. But I still believe I’ve had a reasonably consistent year, and I’ve learnt a hell of a lot,” he said.
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“I had some pretty close-checking tags at times, but other times I was able to work through them.
“There were quite a few roles that I played this year. I started off mostly in the midfield, playing with a bit of freedom in there, but then I got some close attention and got given some other roles to go and run with other players.
“I played on David Mundy, which was enjoyable. I learned a few tricks off him and what he does.
“I also moved to hold back at times . . . I always enjoy playing at half-back because you can see so much of the game, and you really get a good sense of achievement if the team plays well and you do your job as a backman.
Deledio is set to attack the 2014 pre-season with as much enthusiasm as his first at the top level, nine years ago.
“I’m looking forward to getting a lot fitter and a lot stronger again next year, as I always try and do, and build on it,” he said.
“I always look to improve my fitness base. I still feel like I’ve got a lot left in me. I’d like to take more overhead marks, and more pack marks.
“And, I want to build a really strong bond with ‘Cotchy’ (Trent Cotchin), ‘Dusty’ (Dustin Martin), ‘Grigga’ (Shaun Grigg), ‘Jacko’ (Daniel Jackson), and all the boys who play in the midfield.”
Deledio still learning
He is one of Richmond’s stars, but Brett Deledio sees himself as a player still learning his craft.