Ben Howlett has moved swiftly from AFL debutant to 100 game player.

But the struggle to get an opportunity on a senior list was far from smooth. 

Howlett was continually overlooked at the draft table before finally getting a chance on Essendon’s rookie list ahead of the 2010 season.

“It was a dream of mine to play AFL footy.  It was quite disappointing to miss out on three consecutive drafts.  But what stuck with me was; if you work hard, things will pay off,” Howlett said.

And things have paid off for the tough on-baller.

Howlett played 15 games in his first season and averaged close to 19 possessions.

“I was elevated quite quickly and played a couple of pre-season games.  I was lucky enough to play round one against Geelong, the reigning premiers,” he said.

Since collecting 16 touches and kicking a goal in that first game, Howlett has become a regular fixture in the Essendon midfield. 

Arriving at the Bombers via Donnybrook and Peel Thunder in Western Australia, Howlett has proven to be a resilient warrior, always willing to put his body on the line.

His tackling has become a regular feature but he’s also shown a propensity to go forward and kick goals. 

He booted four goals in the season opener against Adelaide in 2013 and last season he kicked five goals against Richmond.

“It’s a great honour to play for such a great club,” he said.

“I’ve got great team mates and the support around you, that’s the thing that keeps you going.  We’re a great team now and we want to strive for success.”