She may not be playing in the upcoming AFLW season, but Richmond Women's draftee Charley Ryan is just happy to be at Tigerland. 

The 18-year-old was met with plenty of uncertainty heading into last week's draft after tearing her ACL earlier this year, meaning she'll be unavailable for the season.

For her, it means a lot that Richmond has shown faith in her long-term development. 

"It's really good knowing that a club believes me and still wants me on their list," Ryan said.

"I'm just really excited to play."

Excitement levels were high when her name was finally called out on draft night with pick 38, Richmond's first of the night, made even more special by a call from skipper Katie Brennan. 

"I was very nervous but I'm happy to be here," she said.

"I wasn't really expecting (the call) and I was still in shock a bit."

Ryan will be well-supported in her rehabilitation, with fellow Tigers Harriet Cordner and Hannah Burchell also currently recovering from ACL injuries. 

"It will be nice having some company and support in there," she said. 

Once recovered from her injury, Ryan is looking forward to showcasing her craft in 2023 as a midfielder with match-winning ability.

"I love going up forward as well," she said.

"Hopefully I can kick a few goals."

Described by Dandenong Stingrays coach Nick Cox as the "most coachable player he has ever coached", Ryan will be drawing on her strong work ethic over the next few months to put herself in the best possible position going forward. 

"I just want to get back to footy and get through the rehab as soon as possible," she said.