Hislop was cut from the Bombers just two years after being drafted at pick 20 in the 2006 NAB AFL Draft and admits he had discipline problems during his time at Windy Hill.
“I’ll probably make smarter decisions off the field. When I first came over I had a few little hiccups but I’ve learnt from those lessons and I’m looking forward to my time at Richmond,” he said.
“I think I’m pretty professional but there were a few little things that happened. I know that I’ve changed and I’m ready to make a name for myself at Richmond.”
The 20-year-old says he is hoping to begin anew after swapping his red sash for a yellow one.
“Everyone at the club’s been great; they said they’re going to judge me on what I do from day one here. It’s great to have the head coach behind me,” he said.
“I spoke with Richmond a couple of days before the draft and they were willing to give me another chance. I was extremely grateful to get another chance and I want to make the most of this one.
“It was a bit of a wake-up call for me and I want to give it everything I’ve got and make a career out of it.”
While the Tigers had told Hislop they were interested, he still faced a nervous wait as he watched the draft unfold.
“My mum came over from Tassie and I was sitting at home watching it on the Internet. It was starting to get a bit late and I was a bit nervous but once my name was called out I was over the moon and really happy to come to Richmond,” he said.
Hislop said he hoped to play a midfield role with the Tigers, citing his ball-winning ability as his major strength.
“I haven’t spoken about that too much with Terry yet but he said they need another inside midfielder and I’ve played there my whole career. I’m looking to get it inside and give it out to our quicker outside players,” he said.
