A trio of Tigers will return to Richmond’s VFL side next season.
By Henry Milic, Richmond Media
Richmond’s VFL team has added another three strings to its bow in preparation for the 2026 season, with the return of players Tom Ferguson, Sam Phillips and Reuben Hanson.
After standout 2025 seasons, the trio have re-signed at Tigerland and will once again run out in the yellow and black.
Tom Ferguson
After a year of playing senior football in Queensland, Ferguson returned to Melbourne to join the Tigers in 2025.
Ferguson made his much-anticipated VFL debut in Round 16 when the side took on the Southport Sharks.
Able to play half back, wing and half forward, Ferguson proved to be a key utility for the side over the coming rounds, showcasing his ability to play across multiple positions.
In just his second hit-out, Ferguson made an immediate impact, contributing to the side’s 46-point win over Werribee, where he slotted two goals, along with 10 disposals.
Sam Phillips
Young gun Sam Phillips will return in 2026 with the Tigers after a successful first season with the Club.
The 19-year-old made his VFL debut in the side’s 46-point win over Werribee in Round 18, and went on to feature in four games, including the side’s Elimination Final against Brisbane.
Phillips had a standout performance in Round 21 against Williamstown, where he recorded 12 disposals, three marks, three tackles and two total clearances.
The half-back/wing showed his elite running abilities and piercing kick throughout his first year as a Tiger and will look to establish himself as a mainstay next season.
Reuben Hanson
First-year player, Reuben Hanson, made his Tigers debut alongside Tom Ferguson in Round 16, proving himself in his first hit-out, recording one goal with nine disposals, four marks, one tackle and two total clearances.
Standing at 195cm tall, Hanson is a key utility who can play between defence, ruck, and forward, making him the ultimate swing man.
Hanson brought the pressure in Round 18 against Werribee, recording 10 disposals with nine tackles, a goal and 12 hit outs after a dominant display in the ruck.
Formerly representing Karingal Football Club, the 20-year-old had an impressive first season with Richmond, showcasing his elite endurance and leaping jump, damaging the opposition from all ends of the field.