Richmond forward Dan Butler secures Rising Star nomination

THINGS just keep getting better for Richmond. A game clear inside the top four, the Tigers have also secured their first Rising Star nomination of the season.

Alex Rance, David Astbury and Dan Butler celebrate Richmond’s win over North Melbourne. Picture: Getty Images

RICHMOND small forward Dan Butler on Monday night earned the club’s first Rising Star nomination for the season.

Butler, housemate Jason Castagna and emerging star Daniel Rioli have been dubbed “The Three Amigos” by Jack Riewoldt with their forward pressure helping the Tigers’ resurgence.

Butler, 21, debuted in Round 1 after two seasons hampered by knee injuries. He has quickly become a staple and slotted 2.1 in Saturday night’s win against North Melbourne.

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The Lake Wendouree product once laid 17 tackles in a TAC Cup match and is much-loved at Punt Rd for his work ethic.

“He’s been ultra-impressive,” coach Damien Hardwick said this season.

“He was probably at the crossroads last year, about midway through the year, and really put his head down and worked incredibly hard on his game.

Dan Butler celebrates a goal for Richmond. Picture: AAP Images

“In fairness to the kid, he hadn’t had a pre-season for the two previous years he’d been here. He’s now completed a full pre-season.

“He’s got a wonderful turn of speed, wins the ball, and is a goalkicker as well.”

Butler has kicked 11.7 from nine games and is averaging an elite 1.6 score assists.