Essendon’s latest recruit Luke Lavender says the Club’s facilities formed a key part of his decision to join the Dons.

The former cricketer resisted offers from several Melbourne clubs before deciding to sign on as a Category B Rookie with the Bombers.

“I was there for about a week and I loved the facilities and just loved everything about it,” Lavender told NAB AFL Trade Radio.

“It didn’t hurt that my family are all Bombers supporters." 

Essendon is in the process of expanding its already state-of-the-art Tullamarine headquarters.

The facility already includes an MCG sized oval and an Etihad Stadium sized oval as well as an indoor training centre.

Lavender was a representative player in both cricket and soccer before deciding to pursue football.

The 21 year old said improving his game knowledge would be one of his early focuses.

“I reckon I’ll be sitting in the rooms watching a lot of footage,” he said.

“My fitness isn’t too bad – I’m already working on that now so I’ll be right once the pre-season comes around and I’ll be ready to give it a red-hot crack.”

The 202cm Lavender said he’d like to model his game on Crichton Medal winner, Joe Daniher.

“I’d love to play like him … he’s a good second ruckman but I’ll probably be looking to make rucking my main thing,” Lavender said.

“He’s quite athletic around the ground and I’d love to base my game around him.”