Richmond midfielder Kane McAuliffe has extended his time at Punt Road after penning a fresh two-year extension.
McAuliffe - who was taken with Pick 40 in the 2023 National Draft - has made an immediate impact under coach Adem Yze, playing nine games in his debut season.
The bullocking left-footer has been locked away in the yellow and black until the end of 2027, ensuring the future of the Tigers midfield.
“It's great opportunity from the club and I am so grateful for it and can't wait for the next couple of years,” McAuliffe said.
“It is such a great culture around the club. We are all a bunch of best mates, so you get to come in to work together each day. I could not have hoped for much better.”
The 19-year-old has averaged 11.4 disposals, 2.8 tackles and 2 clearances in his nine starts to date and will be looking to add to that tally before the curtains shut on season 2024.
McAuliffe attributed a lot of his development to the club's coaches while being appreciative of experienced veterans Jack Graham and Dion Prestia since joining Richmond.
“(They have) really shaped my game and helped me learn the game style and kind of really made me feel welcome, which has been great from them,” he said.
“As well as the coaches, Chris Newman Jack Ziebell and Sam Lonergan, they have all played a really big part in getting me to where I am today.”
Richmond GM of Football Talent Blair Hartley said McAuliffe had made a terrific start to his AFL career.
“Kane has not put a foot wrong since he came to the Club, impressing everyone over the pre-season and continuing his good form into the season,” Hartley said.
“He should take great confidence from what he has achieved this year, and this contract is a great reward for his efforts.
“We are thrilled to have Kane committed to Richmond long-term and are all looking forward to seeing him continue to improve his game going forward.”
McAuliffe's re-signing follows the signatures of forward duo Mykelti Lefau and Maurice Rioli jnr, who both committed to the club until the end of 2026.
It comes at a time when uncertainty runs its reign over the club, as multiple premiership stars could exit in the upcoming trade period.
Liam Baker and Jack Graham are both out of contract and could be lured to Western Australia while contracted stars Daniel Rioli and Shai Bolton have been flagged as trade targets by rivals.
If the quartet of stars were to depart, Richmond could hold up to six draft picks in the first 30 selections.
Despite sitting last on the ladder, the Tigers have shown glimpses throughout patches in games but have been unable to consistently compete with the other sides.
Richmond will be looking to finish their 2024 season strongly, taking on Hawthorn and then Gold Coast.