Developing Richmond tall Ben Griffiths has set his sights on a Round 1 senior spot after a promising but injury interrupted 2012 season.
On the back of a consistent pre-season campaign so far – his first injury free lead-up to a season since arriving at Tigerland – the 21-year-old has high hopes of cementing a position in the Tigers’ best 22.
“I’m feeling very good at the moment. I’ve had a lot of continuity, and I’ve pretty much done everything,” Griffiths told Roar Vision.
“I had a very big focus for myself to put on a lot of muscle over the break, and I’ve done that.
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“I think that’s probably helped me durability wise, and I’ve been able to get through all of the sessions.”
Griffiths played nine games as a key defender in 2012, impressing with his ability to shut down opposition big men.
After breaking into the senior side in Round 9, he played six straight games before succumbing to a calf injury.
“I think there was a patch there where I was in some pretty good form. I had a little hiccup with my calf, and probably didn’t get back to the form I was in before that,” he said.
“I probably took some steps forward, and there’s some stuff I can take out of the season gone, that I can put into this year.
While he continues to practice his craft in defence, Griffiths has kept his options open to a move up the field, if the opportunity presents itself.
“This pre-season I’ve done most of my work down back, so I’ll think that’s probably where I’ll play, but I have the ability to go forward if need be,” he said.
“And I’ve been doing a little bit of work with Brendon Lade in the ruck, so if I get called to play there, I’ll be able to go in there.”
Griffiths eyes opening round
Developing Richmond tall Ben Griffiths has set his sights on a Round 1 senior spot after a promising but injury interrupted 2012 season.