RICHMOND ruckman Shaun Hampson says he's surprised to be in career-best form after a double ankle reconstruction at the end of last year limited his preparation for season 2016.
The former Blue only managed four senior games last season, with Ivan Maric the Tigers' preferred ruckman.
But the 28-year-old hasn't missed a beat this season, grabbing his opportunity to play in all but one game so far, averaging a career-high 29.4 hit-outs per game.
His form has been so good, coach Damien Hardwick has had no choice but to leave him in the senior side, with Maric relegated to the VFL.
Despite his career-best figures in the ruck, Hampson told AFL.com.au he still has a "massive list" of areas he needs to improve on, if he is to match it with the best big men in the competition.
"I think this is one of, if not, my best season," Hampson said.
"I'm still playing far from my best footy. I feel like my ruck work is really good, but I'd still like to get involved more around the ground.
"My follow-up work is an area I want to improve, especially when you see the likes of [Shane] Mumford, and what he does."
Hampson's form in the early part of this season, has surprised not only outsiders, but himself.
The big man had a double ankle reconstruction at the end of last season, and wasn't able to train until February, leaving him uncertain on how well he would perform once the season came around.
"It was really hard," Hampson said.
"I came in for the final NAB Challenge game so it was a complete lack of a pre-season for me. I didn't know what to expect.
"The ankles feel really good now. I feel a lot stronger out there. They were in really average condition so they both needed a fix up.
"I'm happy with how my body has handled itself off no pre-season, so I'm a bit surprised I'm doing so well."
Competition for spots is also driving Hampson, with the big man well aware he could lose his spot at any time with Maric starting to find form in the VFL.
"He's playing well in the twos so that makes me want to play well every week," Hampson said.
"But I think it's good for both of us. Teams need that, we need tough competition from underneath so you get that from every position and it certainly keeps me honest."
The pair has only played together once this season, in round six against Port Adelaide, with Hardwick turning to the likes of forward Ben Griffiths to assist Hampson in the ruck.
