El Nour has enjoyed a strong start to the season for Richmond, once again establishing himself as a key pillar in the side’s defence in his third year at the Club.
The vice-captain was selected in the initial squad for the AAMI State Game last year, but earning the chance to represent the ‘Big V’ this time around means so much to him.
“It’s an incredible honour,” El Nour said.
“To have that recognition from those around me means so much, and I am so thankful for it.
The intercept defender, a strong one-on-one player and a great ball-user, has been a crucial part of his side’s undefeated start to the season.
The 23-year-old has notched up 20 disposals, two marks and three tackles per match on average this season.
Ahead of his fifth season at VFL level, El Nour placed a strong emphasis on “focusing on the fundamentals, and holding down my spot in the side.”
“There’s a great buzz around the Club at the moment with so many promising youngsters in the AFL program, so every game day there’s no shortage of talent” he said.
“It’s been great to lean on the likes of Tylar Young, (Campbell) Gray and (Jacob) Koschitzke, and learn as much as I can from them.”
El Nour spoke glowingly of coach Jake Batchelor’s impact on the side in his first year as coach.
“‘Batch’ has been huge,” he said.
“He’s really prioritised care and connection, and it’s so good to see it on show on the field so far, and I’m loving playing under him.
“It’s been a great start to the season for us, I’m super proud of what we’ve achieved so far…there’s a great energy around the boys at the moment, and we’re loving coming in and spending time with each other.”
The match between the Smithy’s VFL State Team and the SANFL’s West End State Team will take place at Tanunda Recreation Park in the Barossa on Saturday, April 12 from 2:45pm / 3:15pm AEST, following the North Melbourne and Gold Coast Suns AFL match.