Talented Tiger cub Nick Vlastuin is starting to feel at home in the frenetic environment of AFL football.

Entering his third season at the game’s highest level, Vlastuin has found a niche in Richmond’s backline, and developed greater self-belief with his position among the Club’s playing group.

“Over the course of the pre-season, I’ve just done all my work pretty much with the defenders, and feel a lot more comfortable there,” Vlastuin said on ‘Sportsday’. 

Sign up as a Richmond member for the 2015 season

“In previous years, I felt I’d been babied a little bit by the older players, just as far as voice goes in a game. 

“I’d always be quiet and just try to learn. Whereas, this year, I’m feeling a lot more comfortable to talk around stoppages and talk to one of the other boys if I think they’re in the wrong spot, or something like that. 

“We’ve got a good, solid back six, and we’re all very comfortable with each other . . .”

Vlastuin also revealed how dynamic teammate Dustin Martin has set a cracking pace on the training track over the pre-season. 

Download the 2015 Richmond fixture to your calendar

“Every handball game, or every little game, he just dominates in everything he does,” Vlastuin said.

“He’s barely missed a training session most of this pre-season . . .

“Some of the kicking that he does at training is just amazing as well. 

“I’d definitely tip him in for a big year.”