Daniel Rioli and Nick Vlastuin sign contract extensions with Richmond Tigers

Tom Naghten

Daniel Rioli and Nick Vlastuin sign contract extensions with Richmond Tigers image

Richmond have signed premiership-winning duo Daniel Rioli and Nick Vlastuin to contract extensions, keeping them at the club until at least the end of 2021.

The pair were due to come out of contract at the end of 2010 but have put pen to paper on two-year deals.

Exciting forward Rioli, 21, has played 55 games in the yellow and black, kicking 51 goals and emerging as a key member of the famed 'mosquito fleet' that pressured their way to the 2017 flag.

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Injury limited him to 12 games in 2019 but Rioli looks set for big season after getting through Richmond's two JLT Series matches.

“We’re rapt for Daniel to re-sign with the Club, he’s a very talented and hard-working player, and a fantastic young man,” Tigers footy manager Neil Balme said.

“It’s wonderful to watch him grow and develop, he’s had a great pre-season and we’re excited about his on-field contribution this season.”

Rioli said he was looking forward to becoming a leader at the club over the coming years.

"My grandfather played here and I want to play as many games as possible at this club so I’m rapt to be on board for a couple more years," he said.

"I hope to continue what I’ve brought to the club, and to try and be a leader to the younger boys coming through."

Richmond have also locked away backman Vlastuin for two years, with the 24-year-old set to add to his 117 games in over the next three seasons.

“We always know what we’re going to get when Nick takes the field, he’s a tough player and reads the play so well,” Balme said.

“Nick’s also a great character with natural leadership qualities, and like Daniel, he’s had a fantastic pre-season, and we’re looking forward to his season ahead.

“Both Daniel and Nick are important players for our future, and we’re really pleased they both see Richmond as their home.”

Richmond kick off 2019 with their traditional season opener against Carlton at the MCG on Thursday night.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.