Richmond coach Damien Hardwick said he was optimistic about his AFL side's future after finishing in 12th spot in 2011.

Sunday's last-round loss to the Kangaroos by 13 points at Etihad Stadium meant the Tigers had fumbled their opportunity to claim ninth spot for the sixth time since 1995.

But after winning eight games and drawing one, compared to six wins in 2010, Hardwick said he could see some positive signs.

Sunday's defeat was Richmond's first in four matches, ending the season on a sour note against a side with similar ambitions and the same inability to force their way into the top eight for the finals.

However Hardwick said North's experienced players in key positions in defence and attack such as Drew Petrie, Aaron Edwards and Nathan Grima meant they were further advanced in the development of their side.

"There's no doubt we've improved," Hardwick said.

"Our spine is still young and developing. We get three to four years into those guys, we've got really what I feel is a bright future."

Forwards Ty Vickery and Jack Riewoldt and defenders Alex Rance and Jayden Post are all under 23.

"That's exciting for our footy club going forward. We get another pre-season into them," Hardwick enthused.

"From last year, we've become younger, more inexperienced, we've won more ball games.

"The best thing for us to work with is the individual development of players.

"Robin Nahas again today (with five goals as a small forward), Trent Cotchin (22 possessions in midfield) stepped up again.

"You add in Jake Batchelor and Reece Conca and these type of players, that's when your footy club starts to become a lot better."

Hardwick also paid tribute to the season of Bombers recruit Bachar Houli, 22.

Houli joined the Tigers in 2011 after playing 26 games in four seasons with Essendon.

"He has undoubtedly had his best season thus far. Hopefully we land a couple more (similar recruits) over the course of trade week this year," Hardwick said.

Strongly built midfielder Dustin Martin, with 23 possessions, 11 inside-50s and two goals, threatened to steal the game from North's grasp in the final term and at the age of 20 he appears to be a player of huge potential.

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