Richmond’s second pick (No. 50 overall) in last week’s 2013 AFL National Draft, Nathan Gordon, is hell-bent on make the most of his second opportunity at the game’s highest level.

Gordon, who played two games in three years with the Sydney Swans, before being delisted at the end of 2012, can’t thank the Tigers enough for reviving his AFL career.

“I was stoked that Richmond called my name out,” Gordon told ‘Roar Vision’.

Sign up as a Richmond member for the 2014 season

“It’s amazing to get another crack at it, a second chance, and I’m so grateful that Richmond gave me the opportunity.”

A fine season with SANFL club North Adelaide in 2013 was the catalyst for Gordon’s return to the AFL scene.

Gordon, 188cm and 87kg, played every game for the Roosters, including their grand final loss to Norwood, and developed a reputation as one of the competition’s most exciting players in his role as a forward/midfielder.

“I knew it was a good comp. there, and that was my stepping stone back into the AFL,” he said.

“I adapted pretty well, I was pretty comfortable, and I played some really good footy down there.”

Gordon outlined the playing attributes he’d like to think the Tiger Army will see from him in season 2014 . . .

“Hopefully, an exciting player, playing off half-forward working into the midfield, using my endurance base, taking some good marks up the ground, taking some plays down forward and, hopefully, kicking a few goals,” he said.

For now, tough, Gordon’s focus is solely on a strong pre-season with his new league club.

“I just can’t wait for the next couple of weeks, so I can start training, then enjoy the Christmas break, and get back for some more hard work,” he said.

“I won’t make mistakes that I did in the past, and I’ll make sure I get on top of everything and give myself the best chance of playing AFL footy for Richmond.

“I’m just going to have a crack at the pre-season and work as hard as I can.

“My first goal is to play the pre-season series, hopefully play well, earn the trust of some players and coaches, and the rest can take care of itself.

“At the moment, I’ve just got to work hard and earn my respect here.”