Richmond VFL duo Tom McCarthy and Massimo Raso are poised to be the next Sam Davidson to emerge from the reserves competition.
McCarthy and Raso have both started their 2025 campaigns brightly, making recruiters look twice at their potential.
McCarthy, who has played predominately across halfback for the Tigers, has returned to the Punt Road club in tremendous form after 15 outings last year.
The soon-to-be 25-year-old has averaged 24.3 disposals and 4.7 marks, and has the ability to play across all three lines, standing at 189cm tall.
Is this Richmond VFL player the number one prospect ahead of the Mid-Season Draft? ๐
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The Dingley (Southern Football Netball League) recruit is likely to spend the majority of his time at VFL level.
McCarthy's most recent performance prompted coach Jake Batchelor to mention his impressive efforts.
"Played across half back all game and kept creating run and drive. His seven tackles and efforts at ground level in the defensive half really stood out. His work rate is noticeable right now," Batchelor said.
Teammate Raso has also caught the attention of AFL clubs as a lively small forward, which is in vogue at the top level.
Raso has kicked five goals from three games, whilst averaging 18 disposals and three marks.
He slotted three majors against Brisbane over the weekend.
"Started like a rocket, kicking three early goals. Still working on balancing contest involvement versus staying engaged around the ball as a mid-forward, but we love what he brings to the group," Batchelor said.
He spent time at the Western Jets last year but was ultimately overlooked, joining the VFL competition.
Richmond's VFL side has a terrific track record of producing future AFL recruits, with McCarthy and Raso looking to follow in the footsteps of Davidson, Sam Durham, Massimo D'Ambrosio, James Trezise, Mykelti Lefau and Tylar Young as the program's recent senior pick-ups.
The Western Bulldogs youngster is the most recent success story after he claimed the Fothergill-Round-Mitchell Medal as the most talented young player in the competition.
The award has seen the past 19 recipients head to the AFL.
