Nick Vlastuin

Vlastuin spent his formative years living in Eltham North, a suburb in Melbourne's north-east. He played his junior football at Eltham in the Northern Football League before moving to the Northern Knights in the TAC Cup at the age of 14.{{cite news|title=Chalk and cheese|url=http://www.nfl.org.au/index.php?id=76&tx_ttnews%5Byear%5D=2012&tx_ttnews%5Bmonth%5D=10&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=402&cHash=5a5bbcd52ca65ced12ec7524baa4690a|access-date=9 January 2017|work=Northern Football League|publisher=SportsTG|date=24 October 2012}}

In 2011 Vlastuin represented the premiership winning Victorian Metro side at the Under-18 National championships.{{cite news|last1=Clark|first1=Jay|title=Pick Me: Nick Vlastuin at home in the trenches|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/pick-me-nick-vlastuin-at-home-in-the-trenches/news-story/5c52575addc73d453dad654793942764?nk=1de4e0b92ac29693825ca412707c486a-1483952963|access-date=9 January 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp|date=2 November 2012}} He returned to the team in 2012, this time captaining the side to the competition title.{{cite news | url = http://www.heraldsun.com.au/afl/more-news/richmond-recruit-nick-vlastuin-is-raw-but-ready-for-senior-football/story-e6frf9jf-1226590246669 | title =Richmond recruit Nick Vlastuin is raw but ready for senior football | first =Jon | last =Ralph| work =Herald Sun | date =5 March 2013}} He was also named All-Australian for his performances in the tournament.Phelan, Jason (2012). [http://www.afl.com.au/news/2012-07-06/top-teams-dominate-under18s-all-australian-side Top teams dominate Under-18s All Australian side] – Australian Football League. Published 6 July 2012. Retrieved 6 July 2012.

As an Under-18 player Vlastuin was also a member of the AFL-AIS academy; an elite training program for 30 of the country's best young footballers.

Vlastuin completed high school at St Helena Secondary College in 2011. In addition to football commitments, he worked as a pool lifeguard during 2012.

Vlastuin was drafted with {{AFL Ric}}'s first pick and the ninth selection overall in the 2012 AFL Draft .{{cite web |url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/6301/newsid/151545/default.aspx |title=Tigers Take Vlastuin |publisher=Richmond Football Club |access-date=23 November 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121129235729/http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/6301/newsid/151545/default.aspx |archive-date=29 November 2012 |df=dmy-all }}

Vlastuin made his AFL debut in round 5 of the 2013 AFL season in an away game against Fremantle at Subiaco Oval. In round 7 of the same season he was nominated for the 2013 AFL Rising Star after a 23 possession game against Port Adelaide.{{cite web| url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2013-05-14/tiger-on-the-rise|title=Vlastuin wins Rising Star nomination|publisher=AFL BigPond network|first=Ben|last=Guthrie|access-date=14 May 2013}} He also kicked his first career goal in the match.{{cite web|title=Nick Vlastuin|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/players/N/Nick_Vlastuin.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=31 January 2017}} He would go on to play 18 games in his first season, recording an average of 16.3 disposals and 4.8 marks per game and placing sixth in the Rising Star award.{{cite news|title=Vlastuin's Draft flashback|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-11-21/vlastuins-draft-flashback|access-date=31 January 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=21 November 2013}}{{cite book|editor-last=Lovett|editor-first=Michael|date=February 2015|title=AFL Record Season Guide 2015|location=Melbourne, Victoria|publisher=AFL Media|page=606}} In addition he received the Cosgrove-Jenkins award as the club's best first-year player.{{cite web| url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2013-10-03/vlastuin-acclaimed |title=Vlastuin aclaimed |publisher=Richmond Football Club |access-date=28 August 2016}}

Vlastuin began 2014 in the club's best-22, playing in round one against {{AFL Car}}. In fact, he played in each of the club's first seven matches before suffering a broken finger in round 9 against {{AFL Mel}}.{{cite news|title=Upgraded Miles set to line up against Giants|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2014-05-20/miles-set-to-lineup-against-giants|access-date=31 January 2017|work=AAP|publisher=Bigpond|date=20 May 2014}} He would return to football relatively quickly however, missing just two rounds of AFL action.{{cite news|title=Vlastuin stakes his claim|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2014-06-03/vlastuin-stakes-his-claim|access-date=31 January 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=3 June 2014}} Between rounds 15 and 18 he was prolific floating forward, kicking a goal in each of the three matches. He finished the season having played 20 matches at AFL level, including a finals series appearance for the second straight season. Vlastuin placed seventh at the club for tackles and ninth for rebound 50s in 2014.{{cite web|title=2014 Player Stats|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/2014.html#14|website=AFL Tables|access-date=31 January 2017}}

In his third year at the club, Vlastuin managed to play in all 23 possible matches. He recorded double digit possessions in every match in 2015 and finished top-ten at the club for tackles and rebound 50s. He placed sixth in the club's best-and-fairest award, his highest place to date.{{cite web| url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-10-07/greenbergs-grabs-from-the-2015-jack-dyer-medal |title=Greenberg's Grabs from the 2015 Jack Dyer Medal |last=Greenberg |first=Tony |publisher=Richmond Football Club |access-date=28 August 2016}} He was also nominated for the AFLPA's 22 Under 22 team but would fail to make the final team.{{cite web| url=http://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/aflpa-22under22-squad-jesse-hogan-chad-wingard-taylor-adams-jake-stringer/news-story/87776aaba2db48eccd4c9a20fb5dda60 |title=AFLPA 22under22 squad: Jesse Hogan, Chad Wingard, Taylor Adams, Jake Stringer |last=Baldwin |first=Adam |publisher=Fox Footy |access-date=28 August 2016}} At season's end he underwent minor hip surgery.{{cite news|last1=Schmook|first1=Nathan|title=Tigers on US mission|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-10-09/tigers-on-us-mission|access-date=31 January 2017|work=AFL.com.au|publisher=Bigpond|date=9 October 2015}}

At the beginning of the 2016 season, Vlastuin adopted the #1 guernsey, worn the previous year by retiring former club captain and personal backline mentor, Chris Newman.{{cite web| url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2015-11-23/vlastuins-smooth-transition |title=Vlastuin's smooth transition |publisher=Richmondfc |access-date=29 August 2016}} In an under strength side for the club's first pre-season tournament match he played the role of captain, despite not being a member of the club's leadership group.{{cite news|title=Vlastuin to thrive as skipper|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-02-19/vlastuin-to-thrive-as-skipper|access-date=31 January 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=19 February 2016}} He played in each of the club's first four matches that season before a leg injury kept him out of action for two matches.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Big guns back for Tigers|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-04-22/round-5-team-announcement|access-date=16 October 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=22 April 2016}} Upon his return in round 7 he took on a midfield role, replacing the injured Trent Cotchin.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Midfield move makes Nick click|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-05-09/midfield-move-makes-nick-click|access-date=31 January 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=9 May 2016}} He recorded 16 disposals, six tackles and a goal in the match but did not reprise the role on a regular basis that season.{{cite web|title=Round 7, 2016, Richmond vs Hawthorn|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/games/2016/101420160506.html|website=AFL Tables|access-date=31 January 2017}} Vlastuin suffered a concussion in the second quarter of the club's round 11 loss to {{AFL NM}}.{{cite news|last1=Black|first1=Sarah|title=Vlastuin withdrawn from Suns clash|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-06-11/vlastuin-withdrawn-from-gold-coast-suns-clash|access-date=31 January 2017|work=AFL.com.au|publisher=Bigpond|date=11 June 2016}} In addition to missing the remainder of the match he sat out two more games, not returning until after the bye, in a round 14 match against {{AFL BL}}.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Nick back|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2016-06-23/round-14-team-announcement|access-date=31 January 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Bigpond|date=23 June 2016}} From that point forward he did not miss a match, finishing the season having played 19 games in 2016. He was again nominated to the 22 Under 22 squad that season but would go unselected for the second straight season.{{cite web| url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2016-08-22/young-crows-dominate-preliminary-22under22-squad |title=Young Crows dominate 22under22 squad |last=Di Giorgio |first=Giulio |publisher=AFL.com.au |access-date=28 August 2016}} He placed ninth in the club's best and fairest count in 2016.

File:Vlastuin mark over Mayne.1 (cropped).jpg in round 2 of the 2017 season]]

Prior to the 2017 season, Richmond's coaches pegged Vlastuin for a move to a more stoppage focused role. He ceased training with the club's backline specific group and moved into the club's midfield training group.{{cite news|last1=Cavanagh|first1=Chris|title=Nick Vlastuin set to move into Richmond's midfield in 2017 in team shake-up|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/nick-vlastuin-set-to-move-into-richmonds-midfield-in-2017-in-team-shakeup/news-story/417368f800d763d1250bcf67d41b4df3|access-date=27 January 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=26 January 2017}} Vlastuin was a key member of Richmond's strong start to the 2017 season, playing in the club's round 1 victory over Carlton. He kicked a goal during the match while his 12 tackles for the match set a career best.{{cite news|last1=Schmook|first1=Nathan|title=Match report: Dusty blows away Blues|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-03-23/match-report-tigers-cruise-to-victory-over-blues|access-date=9 April 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Bigpond|date=23 March 2017}} Vlastuin suffered a broken nose and concussion in the club's round 3 win over {{AFL WC}}.{{cite news|last1=McGowan|first1=Marc|title=Second-tier Tigers please Hardwick|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2017-04-08/round-3-hardwick-post-match|access-date=9 April 2017|work=Richmond FC|agency=AFL Media|publisher=Bigpond|date=8 April 2017}} He played with the lingering effects of the injury in round 4 before concussion symptoms saw him sit out the club's round 5 match against {{AFL Mel}}.{{cite news|title=Oppo: Tough Tiger eyes return|url=http://www.afc.com.au/news/2017-04-26/oppo-tough-tiger-eyes-return|access-date=18 July 2017|work=Adelaide FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=26 April 2017}} Vlastuin suffered a shoulder injury in the second quarter of his side's round 7 match against the {{AFL WB}}.{{cite news|title=AFL Bulldogs claw past Tigers to grab thriller|url=http://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/afl/afl-bulldogs-claw-past-tigers-to-grab-thriller/news-story/4c6efdc67fde2f647b743c8e98657ba6?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500359866|access-date=18 July 2017|work=The Australian|agency=AAP|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=6 May 2017}} Scans later revealed a small scapula fracture with initial estimations suggesting he would miss three to four weeks of play.{{cite news|title=AFL injury list: Who's hot, who's hurt at your club after round 7|url=http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/afl-injury-list-whos-hot-whos-hurt-at-your-club-after-round-7/news-story/52ff2c8571c76fb49458da2584bda182?nk=76a8a0e279d6b123d45d7a6a0f6c99e9-1500359864|access-date=18 July 2017|work=Herald Sun|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=20 May 2017}}{{cite news|title=Vlastuin to miss another week|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2017-06-14/round-13-injury-update|access-date=18 July 2017|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=14 June 2017}} He ultimately missed more than two months of AFL football, returning to the club's senior side in round 17 following a fortnight of matches in the VFL.{{cite news|last1=McKay|first1=Ben|title=Hardwick wants Tigers to toughen up in AFL|url=https://thewest.com.au/sport/afl/hardwick-wants-tough-afl-tigers-ng-s-1748356|access-date=18 July 2017|work=The West Australian|publisher=Yahoo!7|date=14 July 2017}} He would however return to his previous home in the backline, with his midfield move scuttled by his injury, by previous injuries to key backline personnel and by the emergence of young midfielder Jack Graham.{{cite news|last1=Gleeson|first1=Michael|title=Richmond's Nick Vlastuin is the Tiger who has always been a Tigger|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/richmonds-nick-vlastuin-is-the-tiger-who-has-always-been-a-tigger-20170915-gyimzv.html|access-date=16 October 2017|work=The Age|publisher=Fairfax Media|date=17 September 2017}}{{cite news|last1=Schmook|first1=Nathan|title=Back to the future for reliable Tiger defender|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-07-25/back-to-the-future-for-reliable-tiger-defender|access-date=26 July 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=25 July 2017}} Vlastuin was back to his best in that role, lifting his metres gained average from 20th at the club to third as well as his intercept possession count from 1.8 to 8.3, good for ninth in the whole league.{{cite news|last1=Phelan|first1=Jennifer|title=Defence, and beard, is growing on Tiger|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-05-20/defence-and-beard-is-growing-on-tiger|access-date=20 May 2018|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=20 May 2018}} In round 18 he was among the Tigers' best, recording 11 marks and 21 possessions (including 13 intercept possessions) in the club's win over the GWS Giants. He held his form into the finals series, playing a "pivotal" role in Richmond's qualifying final win over Geelong.{{cite news|last1=Beveridge|first1=Riley|title='It bloody gave me goosebumps': Nick Vlastuin on the Richmond roar and the signs of a changed club|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/it-bloody-gave-me-goosebumps-nick-vlastuin-on-the-richmond-roar-and-the-signs-of-a-changed-club/news-story/a43a6d63729f6e3e2d55ad3dfcddfb20|access-date=16 October 2017|work=Fox Sports|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=9 September 2017}} When Vlastuin and the Tigers won over {{AFL GWS}} in the preliminary final, he was lined up to defend {{AFL Ade}}'s Eddie Betts in the grand final. Vlastuin started slow, giving up a goal to Betts early in the first quarter.{{cite news|last1=King|first1=Travis|title=Composed Tiger unfazed by early blunder|url=http://www.afl.com.au/news/2017-09-30/composed-tiger-unfazed-by-early-blunder|access-date=16 October 2017|work=AFL Media|publisher=Telstra Media|date=30 September 2017}} He turned his performance around however and contributed 16 possessions and six rebound 50s to Richmond's first premiership winning side in 37 years.{{cite news|last1=Olle|first1=Sarah|title=How young Tiger Nick Vlastuin responded from an early shocker to win the 2017 AFL premiership|url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/how-young-tiger-nick-vlastuin-responded-from-an-early-shocker-to-win-the-2017-afl-premiership/news-story/39197cc63a92ea17c288a6c7629935ba|access-date=16 October 2017|work=Fox Sports|publisher=News Corp Australia|date=30 September 2017}} He played 16 matches that season and finished 2017 as a premiership player.

File:Nick Vlastuin 2018.4.jpg

After playing well in each of Richmond's two 2018 pre-season matches, Vlastuin contributed 12 disposals in the club's season-opening win over Carlton.{{cite news |last1=Schmook |first1=Nathan |title=How the Tiger defenders are tracking |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-03-20/how-the-tiger-defenders-are-tracking |access-date=5 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 March 2018}} He suffered a delayed concussion from that match however, forcing him to miss round 2's grand final re-match with {{AFL Ade}}.{{cite news|last1=Greenberg|first1=Tony|title=Houli replaces Vlastuin|url=http://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-03-28/round-2-team-announcement|access-date=29 March 2018|work=Richmond FC|publisher=Telstra Media|date=28 March 2018}} Vlastuin returned after just one match on the sidelines but was handed a $2,000 fine for a rough conduct charge picked up during that round 3 win over {{AFL Haw}}.{{cite news |title=Tigers defensive trio charged by MRP |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-04-09/rance-mrp-verdict |access-date=5 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 April 2018}} Two weeks later Vlastuin was ruled out of the club's round 5 ANZAC Day eve match against {{AFL Mel}} with a minor calf strain.{{cite news |last1=Phelan |first1=Jennifer |title=Star Tigers out, cult figure tipped to return |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-04-23/star-tigers-in-doubt-for-anzac-day-eve-clash |access-date=5 May 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 April 2018}} He again missed just a single match, returning to play his 100th career match in round 6's win over {{AFL Col}}. After season-best totals of 26 disposals and 12 marks against {{AFL NM}} in round 8, Vlastuin ranked second at Richmond for intercept possessions with an average of 7.5 per game. In round 10 Vlastuin was forced to play the second half of a match against {{AFL StK}} as a forward after Richmond full-forward Jack Riewoldt sustained a concussion mid-match.{{cite news |last1=Callum |first1=Twomey |title=Jack 'up and about' after knock |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-05-26/jack-up-and-about-after-knock |access-date=5 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 May 2018}} Vlastuin performed strongly in the role, kicking an equal career-best three goals.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin flaunts his versatility |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-05-27/vlastuin-flaunts-his-versatility |access-date=5 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 May 2018}} In round 13's win over {{AFL Gee}}, Vlastuin was named among the best players on the ground by AFL Media and the Australian Associated Press and received best on ground honours from the coaches with nine votes in the coaches association award following a 21 disposal and 11 mark performance.{{cite news |title=Richmond earn 16th straight win at the MCG, beating Geelong by 18 points to go top of the ladder |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-06-17/terrific-tigers-maintain-mcg-dominance-with-win-over-cats/9865466 |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=ABC News |agency=AAP |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=17 June 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Bowen |first1=Nick |title=Tigers topple Cats in thriller |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/match-centre/2018/13/geel-v-rich |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=17 June 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin to the fore |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-06-19/round-13-coaches-votes |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=19 June 2018}} To that point he ranked 14th in the league for intercepts per game.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin in ripping nick |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-06-18/vlastuin-in-ripping-nick |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=18 June 2018}} Following the bye Vlastuin was again prolific, notching 21 disposals, 10 marks, a goal and six coaches votes that also saw him named in AFL Media's Team of the Week.{{cite news |last1=Cornes |first1=Kane |title=Kane Cornes' Team of the Week, R15: Who makes it? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2018-07-03/kane-cornes-team-of-the-week-r15-who-makes-it |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 July 2018}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Jack's just reward |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-07-03/jacks-just-reward |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 July 2018}} However, he also attracted a one match suspension for an elbow to the face of {{AFL Syd}} midfielder Luke Parker that saw him miss one match in round 16.{{cite news |title=Tiger defensive duo charged by MRO |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-06-29/vlastuin-mro-verdict |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=29 June 2018}} At the beginning of August Fox Footy analyst David King labelled Vlastuin "a Luke Hodge clone" and the "AFL's most prolific intercept marker across the half-back flank (in 2018)".{{cite news |last1=King |first1=David |title=Richmond has created the most dominant intercept-marking team ever assembled, writes David King |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/david-king/richmond-has-created-the-most-dominant-interceptmarking-team-ever-assembled-writes-david-king/news-story/03decae3856661640c7995e4eba7787b |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 August 2018}} Vlastuin closed out the home and away season with wins in each of Richmond's last six matches that saw the club finish as minor premiers. Despite being unselected in the league's All-Australian squad, Vlastuin was named to the best 22 in The Age chief football reporter Jake Niall's team of the year, "in recognition of his rise to become an elite backman".{{cite news |last1=Niall |first1=Jake |title=Jake Niall's All-Australian team: Rating the best against the best |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/jake-niall-s-all-australian-team-rating-the-best-against-the-best-20180825-p4zzre.html |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=25 August 2018}} Richmond opened the finals series with a qualifying final victory over {{AFL Haw}} where Vlastuin was identified by AFL Media as a key part of his club's "almost impassable" defence.{{cite news |last1=Bowen |first1=Nick |title=Ruthless Tigers book home prelim |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/match-centre/2018/24/rich-v-haw |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=6 September 2018}} His finals run would extend just one more match however, when Richmond was eliminated with a shock preliminary final loss to rivals {{AFL Col}}.{{cite news |last1=Lemon |first1=Geoff |title=AFL preliminary final: Collingwood shock Richmond - as it happened |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/live/2018/sep/21/afl-preliminary-final-richmond-v-collingwood-live |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian Media Group |date=21 September 2018}} Following the conclusion of the 2018 finals series, Vlastuin was named as a close miss

by the Herald Sun's chief football writer Mark Robinson in his list of the 50 best players from the 2018 season.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson names his top 50 AFL players following the 2018 season |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/mark-robinson-names-his-top-50-afl-players-following-the-2018-season/news-story/366dd8ff170d7775876240d2365a7001 |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=10 October 2018}} After 21 matches and new career highs in marks and disposals per game, Vlastuin placed eighth in the club's best and fairest award.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=It's Jack for Jack |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-10-02/2018-jack-dyer-medal-winner |access-date=9 May 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=2 October 2018}}

File:Nick Vlastuin - 2019 Grand Final Parade.jpg

Vlastuin started the 2019 season with appearances in each of the club's two pre-season matches, though played only restricted game time in second due to minor soreness.{{cite news |last1=Guthrie |first1=Ben |title=Room for improvement ahead of season opener |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-03-09/room-for-improvement-ahead-of-season-opener |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=9 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers find top gear to topple Dees after slow start |url=https://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/1/rich-v-melb |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181104005501/http://www.afl.com.au/match-centre/jlt-community-series/2019/1/rich-v-melb |url-status=dead |archive-date=4 November 2018 |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 March 2019}} He was fully fit for the club's season opening match against {{AFL Car}}, where he contributed 14 disposals. The loss of All-Australian defender and teammate Alex Rance to an ACL injury in that match however, would force Vlastuin into a more defensive role that in seasons past, becoming responsible for negating oppositions teams' third forward.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=No Rance, no chance? Tigers fail first test without champ |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-03-28/no-rance-no-chance-tigers-fail-first-test-without-champ |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Match preview: Richmond v Collingwood |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-03-26/match-preview-richmond-v-collingwood |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 March 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=What Rance's season-long absence means for Tigers |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-03-22/what-rances-seasonlong-absence-means-for-tigers |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=22 March 2019}} In the week following Rance's injury, Fox Footy analyst David King labelled Vlastuin the Richmond player most capable of replacing Rance's prowess as an intercept player.{{cite news |last1=King |first1=David |title=David King says Nick Vlastuin is the only Tiger who can fill the void left by the injured Alex Rance |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/david-king-says-nick-vlastuin-is-the-only-tiger-who-can-fill-the-void-left-by-the-injured-alex-rance/news-story/8e3ed5cbebb52b918dee269a6b25e01a |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=28 March 2019}} When all three members of Richmond's leadership group were ruled out from playing in round 4, AFL Media named Vlastuin the front runner to captain the side that weekend, though he would eventually be passed over for the role in favour of veteran Shane Edwards.{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Who's the captain? Tigers stare into black and yellow leadership hole |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-10/whos-the-captain-tigers-stare-into-black-and-yellow-leadership-hole |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=10 April 2019}} He was however added to the club's de facto leadership group of five, who served in the role during the appointed leaders' playing absence.{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title='There was possum poo on the floor': Tiger reflects on the road to 250 |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-11/there-was-possum-poo-on-the-floor-tiger-reflects-on-the-road-to-250 |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 August 2019}} Two weeks later Vlastuin would show leadership of another kind, named best on ground with a maximum ten coaches award votes for a 28 disposals performance for which he was also named to AFL Media's Team of the Week.{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R6: Gun Lion, champion Cat, Pie make a move |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-29/coaches-votes-r6-gun-lion-champion-cat-pie-make-a-move |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media}}{{cite news |title=Richmond beats Melbourne by 43 points at the MCG, putting the Tigers in the top four for now |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-24/tigers-too-strong-for-demons-on-anzac-day-eve-at-the-mcg/11038138 |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=ABC News |agency=AAP |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=24 April 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Navaratnam |first1=Dinny |title=Team of the Week, R6: Who makes the cut? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-04-30/team-of-the-week-r6-who-makes-the-cut |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=30 April 2019}} In his next match in round 7, Vlastuin would suffer a minor ankle injury during a loss to the {{AFL WB}}.{{cite news |last1=Navaratnam |first1=Dinny |title='A bit of luck would be nice': Dimma laments injury woes |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-05-04/a-bit-of-luck-would-be-nice-dimma-laments-injury-woes |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 May 2019}} Though he would return to the field to play out the match, a mid-week flare up on symptoms would cause Vlastuin to miss the following week's match as a result of the injury.{{cite news |last1=Navaratnam |first1=Dinny |title=Gun pup reigns supreme as Dogs thump lacklustre Tigers |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-05-04/match-report-western-bulldogs-v-richmond |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 May 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Two Tiger changes |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-05-10/round-8-team-announcement |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=10 May 2019}} Vlastuin returned to the side in round 9, playing a dual role as defender and midfielder while kicking his first goal of the year and adding 24 disposals.{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=Carlton dig deep into defensive stocks |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/carlton-dig-deep-into-defensive-stocks-20190517-p51olc.html |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=17 May 2019}}{{cite news |last1=McGuane |first1=Mick |title=Richmond stays in flag hunt with new faces and innovation on the run, writes Mick McGuane |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/richmond-stays-in-flag-hunt-with-new-faces-and-innovation-on-the-run-writes-mick-mcguane/news-story/f88a61ccd460402ca542e535f0ddd7fe |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=31 May 2019}} He suffered a knock to the hip in round 12 that saw him in some doubt for round 13's match against {{AFL Ade}}, but eventually recovered in time to post 24 disposals.{{cite news |last1=Navaratnam |first1=Dinny |title=Tigers to lick their wounds ahead of six-day break |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-06-08/tigers-to-lick-their-wounds-ahead-of-sixday-break |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 June 2019}} Vlastuin recorded more than 20 disposals in three of his next five games following that match, including in round 19 where he received one coaches award vote for a performance that included his then season-best total of eight rebound-50s.{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R19: 11 votes separate top four as title race heats up |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-07-29/coaches-votes-r19-11-votes-separate-top-four-as-title-race-heats-up |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=29 Jul 2019}} He was named among Richmond's best for 24 disposals in round 20, before earning four coaches votes and selection to AFL Media's team of the week in round 21.{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers close in on top-four finish after rolling Dees in the wet |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-03/match-report-melbourne-v-richmond |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 August 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers scrap to beat Blues at the 'G |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-08-11/round-21-match-report |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 August 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Team of the Week, R21: Who makes the cut? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-13/team-of-the-week-r21-who-makes-the-cut |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=13 August 2019}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R21: Dockers superstar reels in top Dog |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-12/coaches-votes-r21-dockers-superstar-reels-in-top-dog |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=12 August 2019}} Vlastuin closed out the home and away season with a nine mark, 13 intercepts best-on-ground performance that earned him nine coaches votes and yet another selection to the AFL Media team of the week in round 23.{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Team of the Week, R23: Who makes the cut? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-27/team-of-the-week-r23-who-makes-the-cut |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 August 2019}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R23: It all goes down to the wire |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-08-27/coaches-votes-r23-it-all-goes-down-to-the-wire |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=27 August 2019}} He finished the home and away season with the third most intercepts of any player that year and placing 14th for marks, while rating as 'elite' for intercepts and intercept marks by the AFL's statistical partner, Champion Data.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Fantastic Vlastuin |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-08-25/fantastic-vlastuin |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 August 2019}}{{cite news |title=All Australian squad 2019: The five players most unlucky not to be included |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/more-news/all-australian-squad-2019-essendon-snubbed-as-west-coast-dominate/news-story/3f09235aa553ecc3201555f0b9a249a6 |access-date=7 October 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2019}} In the lead up to the finals series, Vlastuin was named to the best 22 in The Age chief football reporter Jake Niall and the Herald Sun chief football reporter Mark Robinson's teams of the year in 2019.{{cite news |last1=Niall |first1=Jake |title=The top sides gets the Lions' share in 2019 All-Australian team |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/the-top-sides-gets-the-lions-share-in-2019-all-australian-team-20190824-p52kc0.html |access-date=25 August 2019 |work=The Age |publisher=Fairfax Media |date=24 August 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson names his 2019 All-Australian team |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/mark-robinson/mark-robinson-names-his-2019-allaustralian-team/news-story/96d6d01e4e79c2838d867a3e5b6295e2 |access-date=26 August 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2019}} Despite that recognition, he was left out of both the final team and even the squad of 40 players for the official All-Australian award and was identified by Fox Footy and the Herald Sun as one of the most notable omissions.{{cite news |last1=Gabelich |first1=Josh |title=AFL 2019: Star Docker Bradley Hill leads 2019 All-Australian snubs |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2019-star-docker-bradley-hill-leads-2019-allaustralian-snubs/news-story/a20c0ba9f587dcc7522598fb727d8f55 |access-date=26 August 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2019}} In Richmond's qualifying final win over the {{AFL BL}} at The Gabba, Vlastuin recorded a career-best 12 rebound-50s in what Fox Footy described as a 'damaging' performance as a ball carrier at half-back.{{cite news |last1=Olle |first1=Sarah |title=AFL Finals 2019: Player ratings for Richmond against Brisbane Lions in Second Qualifying Final |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2019-player-ratings-for-richmond-against-brisbane-lions-in-second-qualifying-final/news-story/ed883287779c39e6f11bf0b6eb616a98 |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=7 September 2019}} That earned his side a home preliminary final against {{AFL Gee}}, where Vlastuin's defensive efforts helped his side through to a grand final match up against {{AFL GWS}}.{{cite news |last1=Gaskin |first1=Lee |title=Every Tiger rated from the preliminary final |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-20/every-tiger-rated-from-the-preliminary-final |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 September 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Olle |first1=Sarah |title=Richmond player ratings: Every Tiger rated in Preliminary Final win over Geelong |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2019-richmond-player-ratings-richmond-tigers-vs-geelong-cats-preliminary-final-every-cat-rated/news-story/f5b3779b9b163745fcac7bcbc006039f |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 September 2019}} To that point, Vlastuin ranked fourth in the league for total intercepts that season.{{cite news |title=Stats Files: How will each team win the Grand Final? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-24/stats-files-how-will-each-team-win-the-grand-final |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 September 2019}} In the grand final, Vlastuin was part of a Richmond defence that kept the Giants to 25 points, their lowest score in the club's eight-year history and the lowest score by any team in a VFL/AFL grand final since 1960.{{cite news |author=Nick Smart |author2=Ben Horne |author3=Tim Michell |title=GWS Giants slaughtered by relentless Richmond in lopsided maiden Grand Final appearance |url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/afl/teams/gws/gws-giants-slaughtered-by-relentless-richmond-in-lopsided-maiden-grand-final-appearance/news-story/c9ce9b4c80168e62d3c8c97c08215e21 |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=The Daily Telegraph |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=29 September 2019}} He took a match-high 12 marks, was one of only five players to receive coaches award votes (three votes) and was described by AFL Media as "one of the Tigers' best" players on the day.{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=Player ratings: Every Tiger rated from the Grand Final |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-28/player-ratings-richmond |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 September 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Orange crushed: Tigers roar once more under Dimma's dynasty |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-09-28/match-report-2019-grand-final-richmond-v-greater-western-sydney |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 September 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Healy |first1=Jonathan |title=Dusty takes out another Ayres Award |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2019-09-30/dusty-takes-out-another-ayres-award |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=30 September 2019}} Vlastuin finished the season with a second premiership in three years and placed fourth in the club's best and fairest count, his best finish to date.{{cite news |last1=Cavanagh |first1=Chris |title=Jack Dyer Medal: Dion Prestia wins his first Richmond best-and-fairest |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/jack-dyer-medal-dion-prestia-wins-his-first-richmond-bestandfairest/news-story/84116541998e43e060d8814cd4f7087e |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 October 2019}}{{cite news |title=Ex-Sun wins Jack Dyer Medal as top premiership Tiger |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/2019-10-01/exsun-wins-jack-dyer-medal-as-top-premiership-tiger |access-date=8 October 2019 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 October 2019}} He was also named at number 41 in Herald Sun chief football reporter Mark Robinson's list of the league's best players in 2019 and was ninth among all defenders on that same list.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson names his top 50 players after the 2019 AFL season |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/mark-robinson/mark-robinson-names-his-top-50-players-after-the-2019-afl-season/news-story/facdffd985d70ddc1ee95957e878f6db |access-date=15 October 2019 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=15 October 2019}}

The 2019/20 off-season retirement of fellow defender Alex Rance reconfirmed the need for Vlastuin to repeat his important defensive role of 2019, which he showcased by participating in each of the club's two pre-season matches in March.{{cite news |last1=Cleary |first1=Mitch |title=Pickett, Bolton shine as 21 flag Tigers go head-to-head |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/375565/pickett-bolton-shine-as-21-flag-tigers-go-head-to-head |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=20 February 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Bilton |first1=Dean |title=Richmond champ Alex Rance retires from AFL, ending a career as unique as it was great |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-19/richmond-champ-alex-rance-fittingly-ends-a-unique-afl-career/11813646 |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=19 December 2019}}{{cite news |last1=Waterworth |first1=Ben |title=New year, new hope: Why you should be optimistic about your AFL club's 2020 prospects |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2020-predictions-hope-for-every-club-why-you-should-be-optimistic-about-your-team/news-story/acdff4e6977e6727025ea818ad85b343 |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=4 February 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Collins |first1=Ben |title=Tigers go down to Pies |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/570460/tigers-go-down-to-pies |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 March 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Curley |first1=Adam |title=Toby turns it on as Giants, Tigers turn up the heat |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/382939/giants-get-a-little-bit-of-grand-final-revenge |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=8 March 2020}} Vlastuin suffered a head knock and concussion in round 1's win over Carlton, ruling him out of most of the second half of the match. Vlastuin made a full recovery over the 11-week hiatus that followed, returning with 13 disposals in a round 2 draw with {{AFL Col}} in early-June.{{cite news |title=AFL 2020 season will restart on June 11 following coronavirus shutdown |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-15/coronavirus-afl-2020-season-restart-on-june-11/12243778 |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=15 May 2020}}{{cite news |last1=McGowan |first1=Marc |title=It's a draw! All square in footy's nail-biting return |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/447326/it-s-a-draw-all-square-in-footy-s-nail-biting-return |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=11 June 2020}} He was among his side's best in a heavy defeat the following week, recording 22 disposals and 10 intercepts in a 32-point loss to {{AFL Haw}}.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin flies the flag |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/720243/vlastuin-flies-the-flag |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=22 June 2020}} Vlastuin received three coaches award votes in each of rounds 6 and 7, after dual 16-disposal performances in wins over {{AFL Syd}} and {{AFL NM}}.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Lambert rises to the challenge |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/742832/lambert-rises-to-the-challenge |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=14 July 2020}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R7: 'Trac' on the move, Jack steals second place |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/468040/coaches-votes-r7-trac-on-the-move-jack-steals-second-place |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=21 July 2020}} In the week leading in to round 9, Vlastuin suffered a calf strain that saw him miss his side's win over the {{AFL WB}}.{{cite news |last1=Kalac |first1=Grace |title=Four Tiger changes for Bulldogs clash |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/784389/four-tiger-changes-for-bulldogs-clash |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=28 July 2020}} He returned to play his 150th career match against the {{AFL BL}} in round 10, before being caught on camera allegedly groping teammate Mabior Chol during post-match celebrations in the club rooms one week later.{{cite news |last1=Twomey |first1=Callum |title=TEAMS: Veteran Lion rested, Tiger returns for milestone |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/480412/teams-veteran-lion-rested-tiger-returns-for-milestone |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 August 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin a model of consistency |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/790626/vlastuin-a-model-of-consistency |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=6 August 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Waterworth |first1=Ben |title='It was a stupid action': Nick Vlastuin and Jayden Short apologise to Mabior Chol |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-2020-mabior-chol-groping-accusations-during-richmond-song-jayden-short-nick-vlastuin-apology/news-story/10e482461a052cbed7796e66d6a3f07e |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=7 August 2020}} Vlastuin issued an apology to Chol and to the public in the days that followed, but escaped without facing club, league or criminal sanctions.{{cite news |last1=Wildie |first1=Tom |title=Richmond AFL players Nick Vlastuin and Jayden Short apologise to Mabior Chol for 'unacceptable behaviour' |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-07/richmond-afl-nick-vlastuin-jayden-short-apologise-to-mabior-chol/12536008 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=ABC News |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=8 August 2020}} In round 13, Vlastuin attracted a $500 AFL Match Review fine for allegedly staging for a free kick during a marking contest in the club's Dreamtime in Darwin win over {{AFL Ess}}.{{cite news |title=Match Review: Lynch sent to Tribunal, two Tigers fined for staging, Power star banned |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/489533/match-review-lynch-sent-to-tribunal-two-tigers-fined-for-staging |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 August 2020}} Upon appealing the fine to the AFL Tribunal, Vlastuin was cleared of all charges.{{cite news |last1=Ryan |first1=Peter |title=AFL tribunal clears Grimes and Vlastuin of staging |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/afl-tribunal-clears-grimes-and-vlastuin-of-staging-20200826-p55pew.html |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=26 August 2020}}{{cite news |title=Guilty or not? Tribunal makes call on Grimes and Vlastuin's staging charges |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/490704/guilty-or-not-tribunal-makes-call-on-grimes-and-vlastuin-s-staging-charges |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 August 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Wood |first1=Lauren |title=Richmond stars Dylan Grimes and Nick Vlastuin cleared of staging |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/star-tiger-dylan-grimes-accused-of-borderline-flop-in-win-over-essendon-in-darwin/news-story/9295fd391057887a3e0437e0d3de01c4 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=26 August 2020}} He earned four coaches votes as equal second best on ground in round 15, after which point he ranked first among all players in the league for total intercept marks that season.{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R15: Contenders stall, Giants and Blues in agreeance |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/496384/coaches-votes-r15-contenders-stall-giants-and-blues-in-agreeance |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=5 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Vlastuin firmly in frame for All-Australian reward |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/808525/vlastuin-firmly-in-frame-for-all-australian-reward |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=7 September 2020}} Vlastuin added another three coaches votes each in wins during round 17 and 18, finishing the regular season ranked third among all players for intercepts per game and fourth for intercept marks, and earning a nomination to the All-Australian squad of forty players.{{cite news |last1=Whiting |first1=Michael |title=MEGA-PREVIEW: Lions v Tigers, stats that matter, who wins and why |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/511675/mega-preview-lions-v-tigers-stats-that-matter-who-wins-and-why |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=2 October 2020}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R18: Lion crowned champion, Demon steals second place |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/510820/coaches-votes-r18-lion-crowned-champion-demon-steals-second-place |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 September 2020}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' votes, R17: TK's perfect night, Boak closes gap |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/510787/coaches-votes-r17-tk-s-perfect-night-boak-closes-gap |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=All-Australian squad: Who's in, shock omissions, three clubs miss out |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/510192/all-australian-squad-who-s-in-shock-omissions-three-clubs-miss-out |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=22 September 2020}} Though he would be named in the AFL statistical Player Ratings team of the year and the Herald Sun and The Age's mock All-Australian teams, Vlastuin would be passed over for final recognition in the official best 22 players of that year.{{cite news |last1=Niall |first1=Jake |title=Bont supplants Pendles, no Fyfe, Max gone in this All-Australian side |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/bont-supplants-pendles-no-fyfe-max-gone-in-this-all-australian-side-20200923-p55yl3.html |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=23 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Robbo's All Australian team: Who makes it, who misses and who gets captaincy nod |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/robbos-all-australian-team-who-makes-it-who-misses-and-who-gets-captaincy-nod/news-story/a711cefa7ee3ea46c11888814a014c77 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=22 September 2020}}{{cite news |title=AFL stats gurus Champion Data unveil team of the year after All Australian controversy |url=https://7news.com.au/sport/afl/afl-stats-gurus-champion-data-unveil-team-of-the-year-after-all-australian-controversy-c-1345720 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=7News |publisher=Seven West Media |date=26 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=All-Australian team: Danger joins greats, 12 fresh faces |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/510595/all-australian-team-danger-joins-greats-12-fresh-faces |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 September 2020}} Vlastuin had a relatively quiet performance with just one mark in a qualifying final loss to the {{AFL BL}} in the opening round of the finals series, before adding six tackles in a semi-final win over {{AFL StK}} a week later.{{cite news |last1=Zita |first1=David |title=Tigers Player Ratings: Dusty starts strongly but fades fast, teammates follow suit |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2020-richmond-player-ratings-vs-brisbane-lions-second-qualifying-final-reviews-stats-tigers-best-and-worst-players/news-story/156df1b76297836ac1f12af8237ff86c |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=2 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Balmer |first1=Matt |title=Tigers player ratings: Young gun ascends to A-grade status, Dusty's sneaky great night |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2020-richmond-player-ratings-vs-st-kilda-second-semi-final-reviews-stats-best-and-worst-players/news-story/afdeaa6b7f13cced41d21c91e03b900e |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=9 October 2020}} He then had what Fox Footy called an impressively clean performance with nine intercept possessions as one of Richmond's best players in a preliminary final victory over {{AFL PA}}.{{cite news |last1=Zita |first1=David |title=Tigers player ratings: One Tiger stood tall over the rest... and it wasn't Dusty |url=https://www.foxsports.com.au/afl/afl-finals-2020-richmond-player-ratings-vs-port-adelaide-first-preliminary-final-reviews-stats-best-and-worst-players/news-story/5a240d072bb6873234eb176397899eaf |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Fox Sports |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=16 October 2020}} Vlastuin become a three-time premiership player the following week, lining up in a grand final win over {{AFL Gee}}.{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers Player Ratings: No passengers on the Tiger train |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521174/tigers-player-ratings-no-passengers-on-the-tiger-train |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 September 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Twomey |first1=Callum |title=Yellow and black to back: Tigers stun Cats in epic Grand Final comeback |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521172/yellow-and-black-to-back-tigers-stun-cats-in-epic-come-from-behind-win |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 October 2020}} His contribution to the victory was limited however, forced to sit out most of the match after suffering a concussion following an errant elbow from Geelong midfielder Patrick Dangerfield in the opening minutes of the game.{{Cite news|last=Ryan|first=Peter|date=25 October 2020|title=Vlastuin overcomes fire drama, concussion to celebrate with Tigers|work=The Age|url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/vlastuin-overcomes-fire-drama-concussion-to-celebrate-with-tigers-20201025-p568f7.html|access-date=29 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Schmook |first1=Nathan |title=Nasty collision floors key Tiger, retiring Ablett hurts shoulder |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/521445/nasty-collision-floors-key-tiger-retiring-ablett-hurts-shoulder |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=24 October 2020}}{{cite news |author=Chris Cavanagh |author2=Nick Smart |author3=Matt Turner |title=AFL Grand Final 2020: Every Richmond and Geelong player rated |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/afl-grand-final-2020-every-richmond-and-geelong-player-rated/news-story/764108c23b6531ae032fb7ac6d3ffe34 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=25 October 2020}} In addition to the premiership win, Vlastuin earned the Maurie Fleming medal for a third place finish in Richmond's best and fairest award, following a 20-game season.{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Short secures Jack Dyer Medal |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/831588/ |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 October 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Loses dad, leaves mum, stuns Dusty in B&F after 's**t' start to 2020 |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/523040/loses-dad-leaves-mum-stuns-dusty-in-b-f-after-s-t-start-to-2020 |access-date=4 November 2020 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 October 2020}} He also placed second among all players in the league for intercept marks that season.{{cite news |last1=Slevison |first1=Andrew |title=IS THE INTERCEPT AND REBOUND DEFENDER THE GAME'S MOST IMPORTANT PLAYER? |url=https://www.sen.com.au/news/2020/11/26/is-the-intercept-and-rebound-defender-the-games-most-important-player/ |access-date=6 February 2021 |work=1116SEN |publisher=Crocmedia |date=26 November 2020}}{{cite news |last1=Greenberg |first1=Tony |title=Premiership Tigers' season summary: Nick Vlastuin |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/846077/premiership-tigers-season-summary-nick-vlastuin |access-date=6 February 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=1 January 2021}}

Ahead of the 2021 season, Vlastuin was labelled by the Herald Sun as the fifth best defender in the league and the 25th best player overall.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Mark Robinson reveals his top 50 heading into the AFL 2021 season |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/mark-robinson/mark-robinson-reveals-his-top-50-heading-into-the-afl-2021-season/news-story/e23a2631d104f2df8eee82e17b204914 |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=4 March 2021}} He played in Richmond's one unofficial and one official pre-season match in late-February and early-March before featuring in the club's round 1 match against {{AFL Car}}.{{cite news |title=Plenty of practice match positives for Tigers |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/868845/plenty-of-practice-match-positives-for-tigers |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 February 2021}}{{cite news |title=Tigers name strong squad for AAMI Community Series clash |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/872344/aami-community-series-squad-announcement |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 March 2021}} Vlastuin was substituted out of the game in the third quarter of the match, after suffering a knock to the knee that caused significant internal bleeding around the joint.{{cite news |last1=Beveridge |first1=Riley |title=Dimma backs positive impact of subs, new Blue's 'weird' debut |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/563557/combined-coaches-tigers-v-blues |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=18 March 2021}}{{cite news |title=Injury Report: Round 2, 2021 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/887128/injury-report-round-2-2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=23 March 2021}} He was initially considered some chance to be fit for round 2 but was ultimately ruled out, with the same uncertainty continuing into round 3.{{cite news |last1=Hope |first1=Shayne |title=Triple-premiership Tiger in doubt to face Hawks |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/569786/triple-premiership-tiger-in-doubt-to-face-hawks |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=AFL Media |agency=AAP |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 March 2021}}{{cite news |title=In the mix, R3: Who's pushing for selection, who's under the pump? |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/573968/in-the-mix-r3-whos-pushing-for-afl-selection-whos-under-the-pump |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=30 March 2021}} Ahead of round 4, Vlastuin underwent further scans that showed greater damage to the knee that was first known, and that would require minor surgery which would see him miss at least a further four matches.{{cite news |last1=Jake Niall and Damien Ractliffe |title=Cotchin's hamstrings OK, skipper set to face Port |url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/richmond-star-to-have-knee-surgery-20210404-p57gdw.html |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=The Age |publisher=Nine Entertainment Co |date=5 April 2021}}{{cite news |last1=Twomey |first1=Callum |title=Tigers to make changes for Power battle, confident on Cotchin |url=https://www.afl.com.au/news/578325/tigers-to-make-changes-for-power-battle-confident-on-cotchin |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=5 April 2021}}{{cite news |title=SEASON OVER FOR KEY SAINT, INJURIES MOUNT AT TIGERS, FRESH SETBACK FOR STAR EAGLE |url=https://www.sen.com.au/news/2021/04/03/season-over-for-key-saint-injuries-mount-at-tigers-fresh-setback-for-star/ |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=SEN |publisher=Sports Entertainment Group |date=3 April 2021}} He made a return to training in late April and was eventually ruled fit to play in the club's round 8 match against {{AFL Gee}}.{{cite news |title=Injury Report: Round 7, 2021 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/921757/injury-report-round-7-2021 |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=26 April 2021}}{{cite news |title=Injury Report: Round 8, 2021 |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/927334/injury-report-round-8-2021 |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=3 May 2021}}{{cite news |author1=Lachie Young |author2=Ronny Lerner |author3=Toby Prime |author4=Sam Landsberger |title=AFL 2021: Hugo Ralphsmith in line for Richmond debut after Shane Edwards injury blow |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/afl-richmond-v-geelong-all-the-news-and-analysis-from-grand-final-rematch/news-story/0da5b35ff968c73e5e0636647060a645 |access-date=3 June 2021 |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=8 May 2021}} Vlastuin was used for periods of the second half of round 9's comeback win over {{AFL GWS}} in an inside midfield role, in place of the injured Trent Cotchin and Dion Prestia.{{cite news |last1=Black |first1=Sarah |title=Tigers come from the clouds to get home in a classic |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/936990/round-9-match-report |access-date=3 June 2021 |work=Richmond FC |agency=AFL Media |publisher=Telstra Media |date=15 May 2021}}

Vlastuin plays as a hybrid defender, adept at directly defending small forwards, taking intercepting marks and rebounding from defensive 50.{{cite book|last1=Marshall|first1=Konrad|title=Yellow & Black: A Season with Richmond|publisher=Slattery Media Group|location=Melbourne, Victoria, Australia|isbn=9780987342898|page=392}}{{cite news |title=Coaches' Corner: Nick Vlastuin |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/248473/coaches-corner-nick-vlastuin |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=16 July 2019}} He is highly capable at playing as a spare defender, assisting backline teammates in aerial contests while they are directly matched up on an opponent.{{cite book|last1=Marshall|first1=Konrad|title=Yellow & Black: A Season with Richmond|publisher=Slattery Media Group|location=Melbourne, Victoria, Australia|isbn=9780987342898|page=395}} Since the injury-absence and eventual retirement of teammate Alex Rance in 2019, Vlastuin has become particularly adept at this role as an intercept marker, leading Richmond that year in total intercepts, marks and rebound-50s.{{cite news |title=Premiership Tigers' statistical summary: Nick Vlastuin |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/306657/premiership-tigers-statistical-summary-nick-vlastuin |access-date=13 April 2020 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=4 November 2019}} The following year he placed second among all players in the league for that stat.

Prior to the start of the 2020 season, AFL statistics partner Champion Data rated Vlastuin in the top tier "elite" category among general defenders in the league.{{cite news |last1=Cavanagh |first1=Christ |title=Richmond premiership forward Tom Lynch rated an 'average' player by Champion Data |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/richmond-premiership-forward-tom-lynch-rated-an-average-player-by-champion-data/news-story/613adf81da5be1a061e9e7d567cd41d5 |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=13 February 2020}} At the end of that season, Vlastuin was ranked the fourth best defender and 19th among all players in the Herald Sun's list of the best players from the 2020 season.{{cite news |last1=Robinson |first1=Mark |title=Robbo's Top 50: Dustin Martin ranked No.1 player in the AFL after another finals masterclass |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/expert-opinion/mark-robinson/robbos-top-50-dustin-martin-ranked-no-1-player-in-the-afl-after-another-finals-masterclass/news-story/5bf6502fd99febbeed9f4eea3f3d690c |access-date=6 February 2021 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=10 November 2020}}

Updated to the end of round 23, 2022.{{cite web|url=http://afltables.com/afl/stats/players/N/Nick_Vlastuin.html|title=Nick Vlastuin|work=AFL Tables|access-date=28 August 2016}}

{{AFL player statistics legend|p=y}}

{{AFL player statistics start with votes}}

|-

| 2013 || {{AFL Ric}} || 31

| 18 || 9 || 3 || 157 || 137 || 294 || 86 || 55 || 0.5 || 0.2 || 8.7 || 7.6 || 16.3 || 4.8 || 3.1 || 1

|-

| 2014 || {{AFL Ric}} || 31

| 20 || 4 || 3 || 168 || 136 || 304 || 82 || 61 || 0.2 || 0.2 || 8.4 || 6.8 || 15.2 || 4.1 || 3.1 || 0

|-

| 2015 || {{AFL Ric}} || 31

| 23 || 1 || 0 || 191 || 161 || 352 || 102 || 62 || 0.0 || 0.0 || 8.3 || 7.0 || 15.3 || 4.4 || 2.7 || 0

|-

| 2016 || {{AFL Ric}} || 1

| 19 || 4 || 2 || 187 || 112 || 299 || 107 || 45 || 0.2 || 0.1 || 9.8 || 5.6 || 15.5 || 5.6 || 2.4 || 0

|-

| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2017^#

|{{AFL Ric}}

| 1 || 16 || 2 || 1 || 163 || 85 || 248 || 90 || 43 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 5.3 || 15.5 || 5.6 || 2.7 || 0

|-

| 2018 || {{AFL Ric}} || 1

| 21 || 5 || 3 || 222 || 127 || 349 || 136 || 56 || 0.2 || 0.1 || 10.6 || 6.0 || 16.6 || 6.5 || 2.7 || 2

|-

| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2019^#

|{{AFL Ric}}

| 1 || 24 || 1 || 1 || 273 || 186 || 459 || 156 || 69 || 0.0 || 0.0 || 11.4 || 7.8 || 19.1 || 6.5 || 2.9 || 4

|-

| scope=row bgcolor=F0E68C | 2020^#{{refn|group=lower-alpha|The 2020 season was played with 17 home-and-away matches per team (down from 22) and 16-minute quarters with time on (down from 20-minute quarters with time on) due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.}}

|{{AFL Ric}}

| 1 || 20 || 1 || 0 || 179 || 94 || 273 || 95 || 42 || 0.1 || 0.0 || 9.0 || 4.7 || 13.7 || 4.8 || 2.1 || 1

|-

| 2021 || {{AFL Ric}} || 1

| 12 || 0 || 1 || 155 || 63 || 218 || 82 || 27 || 0.0 || 0.1 || 12.9 || 5.3 || 18.2 || 6.8 || 2.3 || 0

|-

| 2022 || {{AFL Ric}} || 1

| 16 || 0 || 0 || 234 || 105 || 339 || 123 || 47 || 0.0 || 0.0 || 14.6 || 6.6 || 21.2 || 7.7 || 2.9 ||

|- class="sortbottom"

! colspan=3| Career

! 189

! 27

! 13

! 1929

! 1206

! 3135

! 1059

! 507

! 0.1

! 0.1

! 10.2

! 6.4

! 16.6

! 5.6

! 2.7

! 8

|}

Notes

{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}

Team

• 3× AFL premiership player ({{AFL Ric}}): 2017, 2019, 2020
• McClelland Trophy ({{AFL Ric}}): 2018

Individual

• All-Australian squad nominee: 2020
• Jack Titus Medal (2nd place, Richmond B&F): 2024{{cite web|url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/1669323/riolis-jack-triumph|title=Rioli’s Jack triumph|first=Tony|last=Greenberg|date=1 October 2024}}
• Maurie Fleming Medal (3rd place, Richmond B&F): 2020
• Fred Swift Medal (4th place, Richmond B&F): 2019
• AFL Rising Star nominee: 2013
• Cosgrove-Jenkins Award (Richmond best first-year player): 2013

Junior

• 2× U18 national champion: 2011, 2012
• U18 All-Australian: 2012
• U18 VIC Metro captain: 2012

Vlastuin is a second generation Australian of Dutch descent.{{cite news|last=Quayle|first=Emma|title=Thrill of the game helps control Nick's hard edge|url=http://www.theage.com.au/afl/afl-news/thrill-of-the-game-helps-control-nicks-hard-edge-20121119-29m6k.html|access-date=26 April 2013|newspaper=The Age|date=20 November 2012}} His grandfather fought in the Dutch New Guinea army during World War II and was interned in a prisoner of war camp to work on the Thai-Burma Railway.{{cite news |last1=Vlastuin |first1=Nick |title=My Story: Richmond's Nick Vlastuin on family, footy, surfing and more |url=https://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/afl/teams/richmond/my-story-richmonds-nick-vlastuin-on-family-footy-surfing-and-more/news-story/7b5eba72cf21acd90da856b8cee0d9e5 |access-date=1 August 2020 |work=Herald Sun |publisher=News Corp Australia |date=7 July 2020}} He is son to mother Cecily and father Chris.

Due to a cut on his face that had stitches, Vlastuin was unable to shave for the early part of the 2017 season. He became superstitious and grew out the beard for the remainder of the season, a habit that he repeated during the 2018 season.

Vlastuin traveled to the Indonesian jungles of Sumatra in 2018 as part of Richmond's tiger conservation partnership with the World Wildlife Fund.{{cite news |title=Nick sums up Sumatra trek |url=https://www.richmondfc.com.au/news/2018-12-21/nick-sums-up-sumatra-trek |access-date=1 August 2019 |work=Richmond FC |publisher=Telstra Media |date=21 December 2018}}

Outside of football, Vlastuin is qualified as a carpenter.

Vlastuin's Surf Coast Shire home was subject to a suspected arson attack one day prior to the 2020 AFL Grand Final.{{Cite news|last=Colangelo|first=Anthony|date=24 October 2020|title=Tiger Vlastuin's Surf Coast house set on fire|work=The Age|url=https://www.theage.com.au/sport/afl/tiger-vlastuin-s-surf-coast-house-set-on-fire-20201024-p5687m.html|access-date=29 October 2020}}

{{Reflist|30em}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{Richplayer|id=443/nick-vlastuin}}
• {{AFL Tables|ref=N/Nick_Vlastuin.html}}
• [http://www.footywire.com/afl/footy/pp-richmond-tigers--nick-vlastuin Nick Vlastuin's statistics] from Footy Wire

{{Richmond player squad}}

{{2017 Richmond premiership players}}

{{2019 Richmond premiership players}}

{{2020 Richmond premiership players}}

{{2013 AFL Rising Star nominees}}

{{2012 AFL national draft}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Vlastuin, Nick}}

Category:Living people

Category:1994 births

Category:Northern Knights players

Category:Australian rules footballers from Melbourne

Category:Richmond Football Club players

Category:Richmond Football Club premiership players

Category:Australian people of Dutch descent

Category:VFL/AFL premiership players

Category:People from Eltham, Victoria

Category:21st-century Australian sportsmen