TWELVE months must seem like a long time in football for developing Richmond young gun Ben Lennon.
A year ago, he was omitted for Dustin Martin after Richmond's round 22 win over St Kilda and didn't play in the Tigers' elimination final mauling at the hands of Port Adelaide.
But Lennon has worked hard on his game – modelled on Hawks star Jack Gunston – to be part of the Tigers' dangerous attack leading into this year's finals campaign and he's also been rewarded with the latest NAB AFL Rising Star nomination.
"It was a bit of a surprise when they told me, they told me in the team meeting so it was pretty good. (The boys) gave a bit to me, which was expected," Lennon told AFL.com.au.
"I haven't really thought about finals too much, I'm just trying to play my role and stay in the team as long as possible."
Lennon put his best foot forward when he gathered 16 touches and took nine marks in the wet against Essendon at the MCG on Saturday night, impressing with his polish in slippery conditions.
It was his seventh straight appearance in Damien Hardwick's side, with the 188cm half-forward lifting his work rate to strike a balance between defence and his natural attacking flair.
"Dimma's really big on his defensive actions," said Lennon, who was pick No.12 in the 2013 NAB AFL Draft.
"The biggest thing for me is just trying to make a contest around the ground and trying not to get beaten.
"I've watched Gunston's tape a few times, he's obviously a hard runner, but he's really smart with the way he leads.
"That's something I've tried to emulate in my game, but I've still got a long way to go."
Closer to home, Lennon's forged a strong connection with Brett Deledio – both players are managed by Anthony McConville – and the 20-year-old is clearly benefiting from the Tigers superstar's advice.
He's similarly strong overhead, averaging five marks along with 12 disposals, and after honing his craft in the VFL earlier this year has grabbed his chance to play in the same forward line as Deledio and Jack Riewoldt.
With many of the Tigers' stars in their prime, Lennon can see an exciting few years ahead at Punt Road and the out-of-contract youngster will start talks on a new deal after the season.
"I'm just trying to finish off the year and then I'll probably think about it," he said.
"But Tigerland's a great place and they've given me the opportunity, so it would be good to stay with them."
Ben Lennon's junior club: Macleod JFC
