Emerging Richmond defender Dylan Grimes credits his recent inclusion in the playing group to the selflessness of former captain Chris Newman.

Grimes and influential ruckman Ivan Maric were voted into the leadership group via a player and coach vote during the Club’s pre-season camp in Cairns.

“I can’t underestimate how selfless it was for Chris to step down.  For him to do that, it’s given young players like me an opportunity to stand up and fill in his role,” Grimes said.

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The news came of his leadership group inclusion came at a perfect time for Grimes, who was at home recovering from surgery to his hamstring.

“It was a real buzz for me, because it’s always something I’ve always wanted to do.  It’s a goal I’ve had since I got drafted.

“To get that recognition, especially in such a difficult time for me, was really rewarding.

“It was strange, because at first I got a call from ‘Lids’ (Brett Deledio) when they were up in Cairns, congratulating me on being voted into the leadership group,” he said.

“He presumed Cotch (Trent Cotchin) had already called me and told me, and he told me not to tell anybody until Cotch had called me.”