He is one of Richmond’s stars, but Brett Deledio sees himself as a player still learning his craft.

Fresh from another impressive season for the Tigers, in which he averaged 24 disposals and finished fourth in the Jack Dyer Medal, the 26-year-old was happy, but not overly satisfied, with his overall performance in 2013.

“My season was probably a bit up and down at times.  But I still believe I’ve had a reasonably consistent year, and I’ve learnt a hell of a lot,” he said.

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“I had some pretty close-checking tags at times, but other times I was able to work through them.

“There were quite a few roles that I played this year.  I started off mostly in the midfield, playing with a bit of freedom in there, but then I got some close attention and got given some other roles to go and run with other players.

“I played on David Mundy, which was enjoyable.  I learned a few tricks off him and what he does.

“I also moved to hold back at times . . .  I always enjoy playing at half-back because you can see so much of the game, and you really get a good sense of achievement if the team plays well and you do your job as a backman. 

Deledio is set to attack the 2014 pre-season with as much enthusiasm as his first at the top level, nine years ago.

“I’m looking forward to getting a lot fitter and a lot stronger again next year, as I always try and do, and build on it,” he said.

“I always look to improve my fitness base.  I still feel like I’ve got a lot left in me.  I’d like to take more overhead marks, and more pack marks.

“And, I want to build a really strong bond with ‘Cotchy’ (Trent Cotchin), ‘Dusty’ (Dustin Martin), ‘Grigga’ (Shaun Grigg), ‘Jacko’ (Daniel Jackson), and all the boys who play in the midfield.”