Exciting Richmond forward/midfielder Ellie McKenzie has been rewarded for a fantastic performance on Friday night by receiving a Round 5 NAB AFL Women’s Rising Star nomination.

McKenzie was electric all around the ground for the Tigers, gathering 16 disposals, five marks, and kicking a goal.

The 176cm power-athlete also showed her excellent running capacity with a strong run down the wing that included four bounces.

McKenzie, the number one selection in last year’s NAB AFL Women’s Draft, has been a consistent performer for the Tigers across the opening five rounds, averaging 13.8 disposals, 3.4 tackles, and three marks per game.

The 18-year-old becomes the first Richmond player to be nominated for the Rising Star award in the AFLW competition.

Richmond Head of Women’s Football, Kate Sheahan, said McKenzie thoroughly deserved the recognition.

“Ellie has been tremendous from the moment she walked in the doors at the football club,” she said.

“On-field, Ellie has consistently performed at an extraordinary level for such a young player, and off-field, she is adding so much to our program with her professionalism and drive to improve her game constantly.

“Friday night was a great night for all of our players and staff, and this just caps it off for Ellie and everyone that has been involved up to this point in her football journey.”

Speaking to media immediately post-game, AFLW coach Ryan Ferguson said that he loved McKenzie’s work rate.

“She was not far away from doing some unbelievable stuff tonight. She takes the game on and absolutely played her heart out,” he said.

“For a first-year player, it was unbelievable leadership, (in that she was) leading from the front. She was tremendous.”

Players are eligible for the NAB AFLW Rising Star if they are 21 years and under as of January 1, 2021 and have not been previously nominated.

Two players are nominated per home and away round of the NAB AFLW season.