The first group of Richmond’s playing list returned to training today ahead of the 2009 season.

Players with 1-3 years of completed service began their pre season with a light training run and a series of fitness and strength tests.

Players with 4-7 years of completed service resume training on Thursday 30 October, followed by players with eight or more years of service on Thursday November 6.

The Tigers’ pre-Christmas program will run until December 20, before resuming on Monday January 5.

The 2009 AFL season kicks off on Thursday March 26 against Carlton at the MCG, before a trip to Skilled Stadium to play Geelong in round two.