Track Watch: Pre-Season Week OneBy Richmond Media
Nov 15, 2025Now that the 2026 AFL Fixture has officially landed, all eyes are locked in on our Round 1 date with Carlton at the MCG.
Set for Thursday 12 March, that’s just under 120 days away.
And things are certainly ramping up at the Swinburne Centre, as we recap a busy week one of pre-season.
It’s worth noting that only the first-to-four-year players are required for the first two weeks, before the full squad returns on November 24 for our pre-season community camp trip to Yarrawonga and the surrounding areas.
Veteran Tom Lynch was the first Tiger out on Monday morning, moving through his warm-up routine, running lines and sharpening up his kicking, before the team gathered for their first meeting back.
While Lynch isn’t required back just yet, it’s positive to see the 236-gamer focused on his craft.
Then, all attention turned to the first-to-four-year players, on their official first week back.
Seth Campbell arrived in style, channelling his inner Anthony Edwards by sporting his number five Minnesota Timberwolves jersey as he kicked off his fourth pre-season at the Swinburne Centre. The energetic pressure forward didn’t miss a beat throughout the on-field training sessions this week, leading to every kick, and taking the ball clean as if it were a match day.
Steely Green impressed in week one of pre-season, showing composure and elite execution on the field. The lively small forward looked sharp, hitting targets with precision and making quick decisions while under pressure.
New recruit Patrick Retschko burst onto the training track for his first run in his new colours, immediately looking at home as he reunited with some of his junior teammates. The 19-year-old showcased his trademark run-and-carry and impressive handball speed throughout the sessions. He also wears elite green boots. Worth keeping your eyes out for them!
After missing the back end of his debut season due to a hamstring injury, Sam Lalor returned to training in style. He lit up the track with his explosiveness and elite kicking skills, with the number one draft pick also marking the ball clean, showcasing his confidence in aerial contests.
Tom Brown created some laughter when a playful snap during their jog back for a drink break nearly caused some friendly fire.
Development Coach recruit, Luke Breust, wasted no time getting to know the group, running stoppage drills in the attacking 50 for young forwards, Taj Hotton, Jasper Alger and Green. The young crop of Tigers are already gaining plenty from Hawthorn’s three-time premiership champion.
Kane McAuliffe was working closely with Development Coach Jack Ziebell, throwing him ground balls, emulating winning the ball off a tap from centre square.
By Friday, a few more familiar faces joined the group, with Maurice Rioli and Ben Miller completing early morning runs with Hugo Ralphsmith. Jack Ross also joined the veteran group for a gym session, before the young players hit the track in the Melbourne sun.
It’s safe to say after just one week, it’s clear our first-to-four players have returned to the Swinburne Centre with an immense focus, energy, and intensity. Every player was dialled in and displayed positive signs, with Adem Yze calling for an “all in” approach to the training sessions.
Further excitement is in store next week, with the young core getting another important week of work in, before Richmond adds to its impressive group of youngsters at the AFL Draft on Wednesday and Thursday night.
https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1929612/track-watch-pre-season-week-one
Recent Posts
