Soldo’s potential there for all to see

RICHMOND ruckman Ivan Soldo is “capable of so much more”, according to those in the know as the one-time project player became a premiership player on Saturday.

Soldo (right), who played his first game of football at age 18 in July 2014, capped his stunning rise from a basketball convert in the Tigers’ grand final triumph.

The grand final was just Soldo’s 87th competitive football game and 23rd at AFL level.

Soldo’s ruck coach at Richmond is also his cousin – former Tigers ruckman Ivan Maric – who watched on in pride, only a little bit surprised at the 204cm big man’s progress.

“I’m really proud, just because of all the hard work he’s put in,” Maric said. “It hasn’t been an easy journey for him. It’s been great to watch.

“It’s an amazing and unique journey but I sit here and I’m not surprised because I always thought he was capable and I think he’s capable of so much more, to tell you the truth.”

Soldo logged seven disposals, 20 hit outs, four marks and a goal in the grand final, which the Tigers won by 89 points over Greater Western Sydney.

“I guess in the next couple of days it will really sink in,” Soldo said after the win.

“I’m not saying I’m lucky or blessed with sports genetics but I was always going to try every sport and footy I just gave a go and right now I’m just happy to be part of this great club.”

Soldo said he could not be more grateful to Maric and grand final sparring partner Toby Nankervis for teaching him the ruck craft.

“They’re great leaders in their own right and Ivan being so close to me, having him as a cousin, and Toby is always willing to teach me,” he said.