The man who featured regularly in VFL highlights packages is a step close to showcasing his talent at AFL level.

The Bombers selected Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti with the 22^nd pick in the AFL Rookie Draft.

He’s spent the last three seasons with the VFL side after playing in the TAC Cup with Gippsland Power. 

“Tippa is an enormous talent.  He’s much loved and highly respected here at Essendon,” List and Recruiting Manager Adrian Dodoro said.

“We’ve had him under our wing for the last three years and he’s played some terrific, electrifying football.

“The issue with him has just not being fit enough.  But he’s demonstrated professionalism that we didn’t think he probably had and really knuckled down and got himself in shape and he’s desperate to play AFL footy.”

McDonald-Tipungwuti was awarded the VFL Goal of the Year in 2014 and was a consistent member of the side that reached the Preliminary Final this year.

He’s combined his football career with a role in Essendon’s Community department.

“He's been facilitating the multi cultural schools program, teaching young people from diverse backgrounds in the skills of AFL,” Essendon’s Head of Community Michelle Murray said.

“He has established a fantastic rapport with all the children in the schools he has been working in for the past three years.  

“He has a natural ability for teaching and relates well to all age groups.

“This is an amazing effort considering he didn't speak a lot of English when he started at the club a few years ago.

“He has also helped run various club activities including community activations at festivals and family day.”