Sam Grlj’s coach at Coates Talent League level, Ash Close, has provided an insight into what Richmond supporters can expect from the Club’s second pick in the 2025 national draft.

Close, who recently joined Carlton in a development role, coached Grlj at the Oakleigh Chargers and is enthusiastic about his future prospects at the game’s highest level.

"His ability just to break lines off the half-back line, but not lose his one-on-ones, is pretty exciting," Close said.

"He works incredibly hard. We had a development coach, Jamie Lay, and he would be out here until 9.30-10’o’clock every night working with him. Wouldn’t send him home because he was just working his craft. He wants to get better.

"So, it’s pretty exciting to see where he can take his footy. He's always had elite habits, so he doesn't have to invent anything new.

"We challenged him on his ball use, especially at speed – we know that will be important to the way he plays.

"He probably won't be a high possession player, but high impact, and there's been growth in his contested groundballs as well."