Nankervis keen to make mark at TigerlandSarah Olle,
FOX SPORTS
16 November 2016TOBY Nankervis may have come to Richmond via Sydney, but he joins the club as another proud Tasmanian.
Nankervis, 22, follows in the footsteps of club legend Matthew Richardson and Coleman Medal winner Jack Riewoldt as recent imports from the Apple Isle.
And after two years and only 12 senior games at the Swans, he’s hoping to make his mark at the Tigers in a similar vein.
Nankervis was third or fourth in line for ruck responsibilities at Sydney this season, behind Sam Naismith, Kurt Tippett and potentially Callum Sinclair.
At Richmond he’ll also battle for the top job, with Shaun Hampson and Ivan Maric his main competitors.
Nankervis told the Richmond website he was excited to work with, and alongside, a new batch of rucks and midfielders — even if they were his direct competitors for a starting spot in the side.
“Ivan (Maric) is someone I’ve really looked up to for the past few years,” Nankervis said.
“He’s a very well respected ruckman and obviously Shaun (Hampson) had a really good season last year.
“(Dion) Prestia comes in to join (Trent) Cotchin and (Anthony) Miles and Dustin Martin, so there’s some really good players there.”
Richmond general manager of footy Dan Richardson indicated a healthy rivalry for spots would breed success at the club, something the Tigers desperately require if they’re to make the eight in 2017.
“We certainly see Toby being able to complement (Hampson and Maric),” Richardson said.
“And throw in Ivan Soldo, who’s still young and developing, and Ben Griffiths, who’s capable of playing that forward-ruck role as well.”
“Competition for spots will be tough in that area of the ground, but that’s a good thing for us.”
While Nankervis’ opportunities were limited in 2016, he was a useful pinch-hitter for the Swans, averaging 14.1 hit-outs in his seven games as their second ruck.
But he wasn’t as potent in attack, only kicking two goals when rested up forward. It’s one facet of his game the 199cm North Launceston export is hoping to change.
“I really pride myself on being a competitive ruckman, following up with second and third efforts,” Nankervis said.
“Hopefully I can expand my game and cover the ground better, be more athletic and go up forward I and kick some goals as well.”
Nankervis joined the Tigers in the trade period, alongside Josh Caddy (Geelong) and Dion Prestia (Gold Coast).
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/toby-nankervis-wants-to-establish-himself-as-a-competitive-ruckman-at-his-second-club-richmond/news-story/1298db91b7e9359ca27191fb9b25d884
