Grateful, excited and driven to earn respect.

They're the overriding feelings for Massimo D’Ambrosio, Essendon’s No.3 pick from the 2022 NAB AFL Mid-season Rookie Draft.

The Western Jets co-captain and Richmond VFL young gun drew a top-three selection after a stellar start to this season in the NAB League Boys and premier state league.

The 19-year-old possesses blistering pace, composure with the ball and a lethal left boot whenever he pulls the trigger.

His statistics this year have been strong, averaging 27.7 disposals across his four NAB League matches this year.

The 178cm defender has also shown he is ready for senior football, playing the last three games for Richmond’s VFL side, including a standout performance against the Bombers where he collected 25 disposals.

D’Ambrosio said he was thankful for the opportunity but determined to earn his place in the playing group.

“I struggled to sleep last night, but I’m so grateful for the opportunity Essendon have given me,” D’Ambrosio told SEN 1116's Whateley on Thursday.

“I can’t wait to earn the respect of my teammates and get to work.”

Hailing from Point Cook, D’Ambrosio shared the excitement of last night’s draft with his family who all share a big Italian heritage, meaning there was plenty of love and support.

The moment his name was called out was pure elation, with D’Ambrosio thankful to have his closest relatives with him.

“I had all the family that have supported me along the way,” he said.

“It was special to have them with me to enjoy the moment.”

D’Ambrosio’s journey to an AFL list is a story of triumph after disappointment.

The young defender wasn’t selected in last year’s national draft in a heavily COVID-19-impacted year.

Despite initially feeling down about the missed opportunity, D’Ambrosio saw it as an opportunity to work on his game and become the player he is today.

“I definitely had a bit of a down period after the draft,” he said.

“But then I sat with my coaches and figured the things out that we were going to do to get me to this position.”

D’Ambrosio’s start in the red and black will begin with minor rehabilitation work as he recovers from a shoulder injury suffered in the VFL last weekend.

When he re-enters main training in a few weeks, Bombers fans can be sure to expect a young draftee who’s eager to learn his craft and make the best impression possible.

“I like to describe myself as very coachable,” he said.

“I’m always growing and learning all the time. I work closely with all my coaches to work on my deficiencies but to also make my strengths even better.”