By Tara Murray
Young Essendon forward Nate Caddy has been rewarded with his second AFL rising star nomination in the Bombers win against Sydney.
After receiving a nomination in round 22 last year, Caddy has played every game this season for the Bombers and been a key cog as the side has won five out of its last six games.
The emerging key forward was one of the most influential players in the tight contest on Saturday, kicking a match-high three goals.
It was the third week in a row that Caddy has scored multiple goals, alongside his 16 disposals and seven marks.
Caddy was drafted from the Northern Knights with pick 10 in the 2023 AFL draft and he played community football with the Yarrambat.
“To get a second nomination and recognition for your work is obviously something really cool and I’m very grateful for it,” Caddy said.
“We’ve got a really good group of youngsters who’ve shown they can come in, start to take a hold of games and really drive us into the future. ‘Reidy’ [Zac Reid] on the weekend was unbelievable, ‘Robbo’s [Archie Roberts] getting really consistent and among the best every weekend.
“It’s xciting what we’re going to be able to bring over the next few years.”
Caddy and the Bombers now look ahead to two exciting clashes for Sir Doug Nicholls Round, beginning with the Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium on Saturday night before the marquee Dreamtime at the ‘G clash against Richmond the following Friday.
“Having some huge games coming up is really exciting,” Caddy said.
“Dreamtime’s where I debuted last year, so to potentially play in that again is a real honour but it’s going to be good to see where we stack up in the next few weeks.”
