He is one of Richmond’s stars, but Brett Deledio sees himself as a player still learning his craft.
Fresh from another impressive season for the Tigers, in which he averaged 24 disposals and finished fourth in the Jack Dyer Medal, the 26-year-old was happy, but not overly satisfied, with his overall performance in 2013.
“My season was probably a bit up and down at times. But I still believe I’ve had a reasonably consistent year, and I’ve learnt a hell of a lot,” he said.
“I had some pretty close-checking tags at times, but other times I was able to work through them.
“There were quite a few roles that I played this year. I started off mostly in the midfield, playing with a bit of freedom in there, but then I got some close attention and got given some other roles to go and run with other players.
“I played on David Mundy, which was enjoyable. I learned a few tricks off him and what he does.
“I also moved to hold back at times . . . I always enjoy playing at half-back because you can see so much of the game, and you really get a good sense of achievement if the team plays well and you do your job as a backman.
Deledio is set to attack the 2014 pre-season with as much enthusiasm as his first at the top level, nine years ago.
“I’m looking forward to getting a lot fitter and a lot stronger again next year, as I always try and do, and build on it,” he said.
“I always look to improve my fitness base. I still feel like I’ve got a lot left in me. I’d like to take more overhead marks, and more pack marks.
“And, I want to build a really strong bond with ‘Cotchy’ (Trent Cotchin), ‘Dusty’ (Dustin Martin), ‘Grigga’ (Shaun Grigg), ‘Jacko’ (Daniel Jackson), and all the boys who play in the midfield.”
Source: http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-12-28/deledio-still-learning