The 21-year-old from Westmeath relocated to Melbourne in July last year, and while the Tigers were in the middle of their season, Heslin confined to the training track.
“Six months is a long time not to play games, and I’m getting to the stage where I’m just itching to play games,” he said.
“Back home I used to play games once a week, sometimes twice, for the whole year, and only have a week or two off. So six months of just training has been tough that way. “
Heslin has worked closely with Richmond’s fitness staff and coaches, learning the game, developing his skills, and dealing with the rigours of pre season training.
“It’s my first time having a pre-season ever, because I never had one when I was in Ireland,” he said.
“It’s been a real learning experience for me. The best part of it has been getting to understand my body.
“And I have to thank the boys at times for putting up with little mistakes I make.
“But that’s to be expected...they’re not expecting me to come out here and do anything amazing.”
To watch the full interview, click on the video player above.
