Ryan Garthwaite is edging closer and closer to an AFL debut with reigning premiers Richmond.
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The Corowa-Rutherglen and Murray Bushrangers export played in the Tigers’ pre-season clash with Essendon and was an emergency for the round three victory over Hawthorn.
Garthwaite recently featured in Richmond’s VFL win against Port Melbourne.
However, the competition for senior spots is fierce with the Tigers only dropping one of their first four games, falling to Adelaide in a rematch of last year’s grand final in round two.
“We had a good pre-season and had that fire in our belly to want to keep improving,” Garthwaite said.
“My aim is to keep working hard and keep improving to be ready for when my time comes.
“I’m learning off some of the best defenders ever to play the game, so I’m very happy.
“The competition for spots is very high, but I think it’s a good predicament to be in.
“It pushes everyone to keep improving, which I think is healthy for a club.”
Garthwaite’s key goal is working on his strength.
“Mine is my marking and my competitiveness playing down back,” he said.
“It’s about playing my role and enjoying my footy, which is something I want to keep improving.
“We learnt a lot of things from the Adelaide game to take away, which is a bonus at the start of the year.
“We’ve been working hard and the boys have come out in the last two weeks and put on some really good performances.”
Garthwaite caught up with fans in Wodonga on Tuesday during Richmond’s visit to the region.
The club has used this week to spend some time in the community before preparing for its Anzac eve clash with Melbourne next Tuesday.