New recruit Martin Gleeson is prepared for the hard work coming his was as he attempts to forge an AFL career at the Bombers.

The 18-year-old from Warnambool was taken at selection 53 in last week’s national draft and weighs in at just 69kgs.

Gleeson understands the hard yards begin now despite making it onto an AFL senior list.

“Hirdy gave me a call after I was selected and said he was very happy to have me on board and that I deserved my spot on the list,” Gleeson said.

“Now I just have to work hard and give it my best.

“I am very light and at the moment I am an outside runner but I would like to develop my strength and inside game as well.”

Precise by both hand and foot the youngster has good speed to match his endurance and composure under pressure.

Gleeson said he was thrilled to hear his name read out at last Thursday night’s national draft.

“It was a very surreal feeling, I didn’t believe it at the start and it has taken a while for everything to sink in.”

“I had no idea where I was going to go let alone Essendon so it was a very big shock but very exciting.”

“I was over the moon when it first happened but following our camp on the Gold Coast I have settled in well now.”

Gleeson had the first opportunity to meet his new teammates on last week’s training camp.

“It wasn’t too bad meeting everyone, all the guys are very easy going, and they come up and talk to you.”

“Heading up to the Gold Coast on the training camp was a pretty good way to do it as it provides a really good opportunity to meet all the boys.”