Rising Richmond midfielder Anthony Miles credits his time with the Tigers’ VFL team, throughout the first half of this season, as the catalyst for the impact he made at senior league level in 2014.

Miles arrived at Richmond from Greater Western Sydney as a rookie, and wasn’t upgraded to the Club’s senior list until midway through the season.  From there, however, he had a significant impact in the Tigers’ run to the finals.

“I really believe the stint in the VFL for me was a good apprenticeship,” Miles told Roar Vision.

“It put me in better stead for when I did play my first game for Richmond.

Bid on 2014 Richmond signed match-worn guernseys, including Anthony Miles

“I was fortunate enough to break into the side in Round 12 and I was just happy to keep my spot for the remainder of the year.

“My first game was against North Melbourne and it was an unbelievable experience.

“Rex Hunt presented me with my jumper, which is something I’ll never forget.  To play in that game was awesome.”

Miles played the last 13 games of the season in Richmond’s senior side, averaging 24 disposals, four tackles, six clearances and 11 contested possessions.

Despite the substantial impact he exerted within the Tigers’ team in 2014, the 22-year-old has more improvement on his mind as he builds into his fourth year in the AFL system.

“We talked about in finals being able to do the basics well, and that’s something I want to continue to work on,” Miles said.

“Just to refine those skills, be clean below my knees, and my running ability will always be a focus for me.”