In the countdown to the 2014 National Draft on Thursday, we discuss the whole draft experience with Richmond’s three 2013 pick-ups.  First-up, it’s Sam Lloyd . . .
 

Tiger time flies
“It’s gone very quickly. Before I knew it, I was picked up by Richmond . . . I came in and did a pre-season, and that felt like it went forever.  Then, the season came in, and I played a couple of games. The next thing you know, it’s the off-season. Now we’re back again . . .”

Meet the Tigers
“I was excited meeting with them at draft camp.  It seemed like a very stock standard meeting . . . I walked out of there going, that was easy, that was nice.  And, then, I didn’t really hear from them till after I got picked up.  I was pretty happy, obviously.”

Watching the draft
“I was actually at my girlfriend’s at the time, and my mum and dad were there.  It was just a casual dinner.  I didn’t think that I would go in the National) Draft – I was more looking to the rookie draft.  When my name got read out, the place erupted.  It was a real bonus and a real thrill.”

Post-draft whirlwind
“Had a few celebratory drinks after – not too many, though.  Then, over the next couple of days, I was sort of borderline excitement and anxious to get down there, meet everyone, and hit the track running.  It was a whirlwind couple of days.”

At home at Tigerland
“I was petrified, to be honest, coming down.  I thought, what kind of initiations would the boys have for the new guys?  But everyone made it really easy – coaches, players, older players . . .  They just made it a really good place to be around, and still do.  I’m sure whoever comes in next year, will be feeling the same way.”

Next goal
“Had an okay year, with that thrill of playing a few games out in front of the Richmond faithful.  I just want to have that every game next year.”