It's hard not to be excited about what lies ahead for Richmond, with Sam Lalor's name just one of many youngsters committed to the Club's long term success.

The midfielder put pen to paper and signed a two-year contract extension in August, keeping him at the Club until at least 2029.

He was joined by key forwards Harry Armstrong and Jonty Faull, as well as pacy midfielder Taj Hotton, who have all also committed to Richmond until at least 2029.

It's a key driving factor in why Lalor chose to stick with the Tigers, who drafted him with pick No.1 back in 2024.

"The youth and playing with people you get drafted with [excites me]. We hope to build an exciting team and a tough team," Lalor said.

And with the help of senior coach Adem Yze, Lalor knows the only way is up.

"Yze has been great for that [motivation]," he said.

"We love having him as a coach, we're learning so much. Hopefully we can continue to get better as a group."

The faith placed in Lalor from Yze is something the 20-year-old is keen to build on, with hopes he and his young teammates can grow over the upcoming pre-season.

"We know that there's a strong plan and we're all working towards it together," Lalor said.

"I'm super excited that they've signed on as well. I can't wait to spend the next few years with each other.

"I'm super excited and can't wait to get to work in the pre-season to work on some things I have struggled with a bit. I'm looking forward to having a big off season. Hopefully I can bring that [improvement] into the season next year."

Lalor, who has played 23 games since his debut in Round 1 of the 2025 season, is now leaning on the Tiger Army to support the next generation through the walls of the Swinburne Centre, and into the next phase of Richmond success.

"Everyone in here, inside the four walls, has made me feel so welcomed since I've been here," Lalor said.

"The Tiger Army has been great as well. There's nothing better than running out on the 'G and hearing the fans scream at the top of their lungs."