Richmond is well advanced with preparations for its stand-alone VFL team, which will compete in the competition’s 2014 season.

The Tigers’ VFL side is both an exciting opportunity and important program to develop the Club’s young talent.

Richmond’s Fighting Tiger Fund, through support from significant contributors and Tiger members, has been critical to enable the Club to not only field a standalone VFL side, but also bring forward its establishment by 12 months.

The VFL team will also receive continued support from SCF Group and Jeep, its valued development partners. Jeep’s logo will feature on the front of the guernsey, and SCF Group will feature on the back.

Richmond’s VFL senior coach, Tim Clarke, said Richmond will take a ‘one-club’ approach with its football programs, with VFL-listed players treated exactly as its AFL listed players.

“The VFL program is incredibly important to our club, and it’s essential that everyone from our players and staff, to our members and supporters, understand how significant this development program is for Richmond’s future,” Clarke said.

“It’s our goal that the VFL program mirrors our AFL program, with VFL listed players having full access to the ME Bank Centre and its facilities, and medical and fitness staff.

The VFL is the highest tier of competition below the AFL in Victoria, and, from 2014, there will be 16 sides in the competition.

Richmond will be one of two new additions to the VFL, and one of five standalone sides from AFL clubs in the competition.

Clarke was appointed senior coach of the team after coaching Richmond’s former VFL affiliate, Coburg, in 2013.

Supporting Clarke are Richmond’s development coaches Andrew McQualter, Max Bailey and Greg Mellor, as well as a number of dedicated administration and fitness staff.

To create the VFL team, Richmond will recruit 21 VFL listed players, who will train three nights a week at the ME Bank Centre, Punt Road Oval.

On game day, the VFL side will be comprised of Richmond’s AFL listed players who have not been selected to play for the AFL side, along with the VFL recruits.

Stay tuned for more Richmond VFL news and videos with development coaches, and VFL player signings.

The Fighting Tiger Fund’s Patrons Program will provide funds to support Richmond’s VFL program. To become an FTF Patron and support the Club’s development, click here.