North Launceston product Rhyan Mansell has secured his future in the yellow and black, re-signing with Richmond for two seasons.
The 21-year-old joined the Tigers during the supplementary selection period in February after a month around the group and hasn't looked back, playing 13 games in his debut season.
Relishing his role across half-back, he averaged 11 disposals, 2.2 tackles and 2.7 rebound 50s, much to the delight of Richmond's general manager of football talent Blair Hartley.
"Rhyan has also worked really hard since he first joined us as a train-on player in January," he said.
"He has thoroughly deserved the senior opportunities he received this year, and we are excited to see him continue to progress across the next two years and beyond."
In a video posted to the Tigers' Twitter on Tuesday, Mansell addressed the "Tiger Army", pleased to have signed on alongside Daniel Rioli (one-year deal).
"[I'm] absolutely stoked to have signed on for another two years," he said.
I've really enjoyed my first year at the football club and can't wait to see what the next couple of years will bring.
- Rhyan Mansell
The love was mutual between Mansell and the Tigers' supporters, with several comments praising his efforts throughout 2021
"Love this bloke, gives his all week after week. Can't wait to see him don the yellow and black for the next decade," one read.
"Rhyan Mansell is going to be some player, I can see him playing a lot of games for this club," another said.
Mansell's Tigers recruitment came after the State League star made the move to SANFL club Woodville-West Torrens at the end of the 2019 season.
Having won three premierships with North Launceston, he won another with the Eagles and was one of six players from that side to end up on an AFL list for 2021.
In a unique twist, the announcement of Mansell's re-signing came seven years to the day of his NTJFA under-14s premiership win alongside cousin Tarryn Thomas at North Launceston.
Thomas, who is contracted until the end of next season, has had a breakout season in North Melbourne's midfield.
Josh Partridge
As a sports-mad fan who loves to remain challenged, sports journalism always seemed the path for me and it's allowed me to do things I never thought possible. A keen racquet sports player, I'm experienced in that field, allowing me to do my job at a strong standard.
As a sports-mad fan who loves to remain challenged, sports journalism always seemed the path for me and it's allowed me to do things I never thought possible. A keen racquet sports player, I'm experienced in that field, allowing me to do my job at a strong standard.
