New recruit Jason Ashby believes he will learn from the best during his time at Essendon, praising the leadership of James Hird and Jobe Watson following his first week at the club.

Speaking from the Gold Coast, Ashby said he was already motivated by the leaders following his selection at pick 34 in last week’s national draft.

“I know Essendon is a very proud club with some fantastic players and I’m really enjoying soaking up all of these new opportunities already,” Ashby said.

“We have some really good leaders at the club including James, Jobe and Brendon (Goddard) and they’re all incredibly motivating.”

The 18-year old from the Oakleigh Chargers said he was particularly grateful for the opportunity to get selected by an AFL club like Essendon.

“When I found I was going to Essendon, I quite literally jumped off the couch,” Ashby said.

“I was at home with my family, but once my name was read out, all of my friends and neighbours came straight over so there were quite a few people that ended up with us on the night of the draft.

“I couldn’t have picked a better club to come to, because it’s a really exciting time and the direction we’re heading in is promising.”

The hard running defender said on-going development was key to his personal success in 2013.

“I am a half back flanker, but very much an endurance type player too,” Ashby said.

“It sounds cliché, but I really just want to be the best player I can be and improve as quickly as I can in the 2013 season.

“Everyone at Essendon has been saying there is a good feeling amongst the playing group so it really is fantastic to be a part of it.”