2010 National Draft - Tom Derickx Pick 63DOB: 7/12/87
Height: 201cm
Weight: 100kg
Club: Claremont
WATCH TOM DERICKX HIGHLIGHTS:
http://www.richmondfc.com.au/roarvisionarchive/tabid/11454/contentid/314441/default.aspxWhat the recruiters say:Tom is an athletic ruckman who is very creative with his tap work and has excellent mobility around the ground. His second efforts at ground level and his ability to chase and tackle are a real feature and his movement enables him to go forward and be effective as a lead up forward. He is also a good kick both in general play and goal kicking.
Tom is a late developer who was playing in Margaret River until the end of 2008 when he moved to Perth and signed with Claremont. He played in the reserves in 2009 but blossomed this year after a strong pre season and a late growth spurt which saw him grow to over 200cm. Tom had a solid season as a ruck/forward playing all year in the league side and was a strong contributor in their narrow grand final loss.
While Tom is 22 we feel he is very early in his development phase and in a full time environment will blossom with his natural athletic and football traits and we look forward to him growing and improving at the Richmond Football Club.
In his own words:
What type of player are you?I am an agile tap ruckman, with strong marking ability and a willingness to work and get back to help the defenders. I can also offer a dangerous option up forward.
Which AFL player do you feel you resemble and why?Patrick Ryder and David Hille. They are both athletic and versatile, providing a dangerous option up forward and around the ground. My tap work is my focus, in this regard Darren Jolly has been influential.
What are your strengths as a footballer?I am a left-handed tap ruckman, this can be seen as strength as it adds variety. I believe I have good mobility for my size and the confidence to beat my opponent. I also consider my marking skills to be one of my strengths.
What parts of your game would you like to improve?I am currently working to improve my conditioning, speed and fitness can continually be improved. A focus for me this year has been my second and third efforts and contested marking. Both of these areas have become more evident in my game, but there’s still room for further improvement.
Which AFL team do you support and how did you come to barrack for them?West Coast Eagles - my dad was a mad Eagles fan so I grew up supporting them. I now have a few friends playing in WA and interstate teams, so I tend to support them rather than the teams.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career so far, and why?My parents, especially my dad Rick, have been the biggest influence on me. The support and advice that they have given me throughout my career has been inspirational.
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