Round 22’s Telstra AFL Rising Star Nate Caddy admits he’s pleased to be recognised for his work after a terrific start to his Essendon career.

The 19-year-old earned the nomination after a three-goal effort against the Suns, his highest return so far in his young career.

Reflecting on a breakout game which looked distant after a disruptive back injury cruelled his early-season AFL chances, Caddy is rapt to have relished his chance at senior level.

“It’s a good feeling to get noticed and a bit of a reward for effort. We didn’t get the win on the weekend, so it doesn’t feel as sweet, but it’s a nice feeling,” Caddy told essendonfc.com.au.

“I had a bit of a rough start to the year, so it was more about getting continuity and playing my role and learning it.

“Then once I learnt my role, (I focussed on) how to execute it and get onto a few. On the weekend, I still could’ve done a bit more, but it was good to get some recognition.”

The talented key forward hasn’t missed a bit since his round 11 debut, featuring in Essendon’s past six games as an athletic option in attack.

Despite his on-field skills which have impressed so early in his career, Caddy his keep his feet firmly planted on the ground, focusing on being the best teammate he can be.

“I just try to go out there and compete as hard as I can,” he said.

“It’s obviously tough coming in as a 19-year-old, playing against some really good defenders and I’m just trying to be as damaging and bring a bit of energy to the side in the back end of the year.”

Caddy will look to continue his excellent second half of the year as Essendon face Sydney on Friday night football at Marvel Stadium.