Richmond finds itself in unfamiliar territory as it prepares for the new campaign, entering 2024 with an aura of revitalisation following its acquisition of Adem Yze as the club's new senior coach.
Whilst the Tiger Army was given a temporary taste of life after Damien Hardwick in the second half of last season – winning seven games and dropping six under interim mentor Andrew McQualter – Richmond's new era will officially commence when the Tigers travel to play Hardwick's Gold Coast Suns in this year's Opening Round.
Despite guiding his side to six wins from his first eight games in charge, McQualter's Tigers faded during the final stretch of the home-and-away season, falling short in three of their final five matches to miss out on September action and consign themselves to 13th position on the ladder.
2024 expectations
The Tigers weren't as prevalent in last October'splayer movement period as they were in 2022 when they latched onto ex-GWS pair Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper, perhaps signalling a lesser extent of aggressiveness as a club this year. Richmond nabbed a pair of South Australians, midfielder Kane McAuliffe and key forward Liam Fawcett, at November's National Draft, adding to a growing young core of Tigers.
For the full preview, download Zero Hanger's FREE 2024 AFL Season Guide.
While the Tigers arguably further improved their list this past off-season, it's difficult to envision Richmond's youthful contingent making September noise in 2024 as they re-tool under a fresh-faced coaching staff that also contains former club captain Chris Newman.
Star Player: Shai Bolton
Historically, this title is Dustin Martin's. However, as the champion's career begins to wind to a close, a new face comes into frame, and he's certainly worthy of the mantle.
Bolton's 2023 campaign represented a career-best stint for the West Australian, having managed all-time highs in the disposals, inside 50s and clearances stat categories. Further, the 25-year-old ranked inside the AFL's top ten in score involvements and inside 50s, demonstrating his immense impact as an attacking player.
