Shai Bolton earns AFL Rising Star nomination after stepping up his midfield game

Shai Bolton admits he would be a bit lazy in the off-season when he’s back home in Perth but last summer was different as the Rising Star nominee reveals he wants to stay at Richmond for the long haul.

Shai Bolton knew he had been a touch “lazy” in past trips home to Perth for his Christmas break.

But entering his third year in the AFL and on a one-year contract with Richmond for 2019, he knew he could little afford to slack off again last summer.

Tigers coach Damien Hardwick had long wanted to use Bolton’s silky skills and speed in the midfield, but the young gun had been lacking the tank — until now.

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“I went back home and I got a personal trainer and worked with him,” Bolton said.

“I did the program (from Richmond) and also did a few extras with the PT.

“I just did it off my own bat. I knew maybe if I went back to Perth sometimes I would be a little bit lazy and maybe I wouldn’t do it.

“I’m the fittest I’ve ever been.”

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As a small forward, Bolton won both the Mark of the Year and the Goal of the Year in the VFL in 2018.

After playing just his second game in the midfield at AFL level against Greater Western Sydney on the Sunday, he now has a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination to add to his resume.

Rising Star nominee Shai Bolton says he’s the fittest he’s ever been. Picture: AAP

The 20-year-old was the second-ranked player on the field with 29 disposals and a goal against the Giants in his 10th game AFL game of the season and 19th of his career.

“Dimma’s always told me he wants me playing more up the ground and getting a bit more of the ball and he’s had trust in me to go up into the midfield,” Bolton said.

“I just want to learn off all the midfielders and work on my craft.”

Bolton remains out of contract for next year, but said he has no desire to move back to Perth.

Girlfriend Hasina moved to Melbourne after Bolton’s first year at the Tigers and the pair are more than happy in their new city.

“Melbourne is a great place to live,” Bolton said.

“I’ve got the missus over here and the family came over recently. So there’s no way I’m getting homesick.

“I love being with the club and being with the boys.”

Bolton has developed a close bond with his band of “Brothers” as one of six indigenous players at the Tigers, who regularly catch up for lunch and face off in Fortnite battles on their PlayStations.

An artistic type, Bolton has also begun designing T-shirts and other streetwear in his spare time.

“I’m not working with any companies at the moment. It’s just a slow start but it’s something that I’m interested in,” Bolton said.

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Originally published as Shai Bolton earns AFL Rising Star nomination after stepping up his midfield game