In a special edition of Coaches' Corner, two former great rucks of the Richmond Football Club, Shaun Grigg and Ivan Maric, discuss the development of young ruckman, Ivan Soldo.

His 2019 development

“He's been working really hard on the track...One of the big things for him has been his marking, getting back to be a kick behind the play and taking a few marks. He’s also done some other good things like his tackling and second effort stuff, he works hard.”

Taking on Richmond’s no. 1 ruck duties in Toby Nankervis’ absence

“He’s been pretty patient, he had to work really hard and play a lot of time in the VFL, which has been a bit of a blessing in disguise for him because it gives him more time to work on those things. And then when he’s come in, he’s done pretty well.”

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His three 2019 AFL performances (averaging 32 hit-outs per game)

“He played on some good ruckmen so it was a good challenge for him and we definitely saw what he’s capable of. The coaches and ‘Dimma’ have got a bit more trust in him in the future, which is good.”

Learning off Nankervis

“Him and Toby have been battling it out over the pre-seasons for many years and they actually get the best out of each other...They definitely learn off each other, with Toby setting the standard here at the Richmond Football Club.”

Competition for Richmond ruck spots

"I do (think both Soldo and Nankervis can play together)... He's done well, and after that North Melbourne game (Round 11), I think it stood out that we needed a couple of talls in that game."

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