Richmond’s mature-age ruck recruit Shaun Hampson has spoken passionately about his new football home, in an exclusive interview with ‘Roar Vision’.

Hampson was one of the Tigers’ best in his debut for the Club, against Gold Coast at Metricon Stadium last Saturday night.

He toiled manfully in the ruck right throughout the opening round clash, picking up 13 disposals and winning a clear, game-high 37 hitouts.

“I just loved pre-season, love what the Club’s about – players, staff, coaches, right the way through.  Could not be happier to represent the Club,” Hampson said.

With Ivan Maric sidelined for several weeks due to an ankle injury, Hampson has taken over the No. 1 ruck mantle at Tigerland, and he’s relishing the opportunity after managing just 63 games in seven seasons at Carlton.

“I’ve been brought into the team as backup for ‘Ivvy’.  (The plan is) I play forward and help him out when he needs a rest.  But, obviously, big Ivvy’s injured, so I’ve taken the No. 1 (ruck) spot, and I’m working my arse off, to not let the boys down,” Hampson said.

“I’ve got a full pre-season under the belt, which is good . . . always helps going into the season.

“It’s been tough, but a really good one.”