Essendon draftee Nate Caddy announced himself as a Round 1 bolter with an impressive showing at the club’s ‘Member Fest’ at their Tullamarine HQ.
The Bombers are hoping to improve on what was lacking in 2023, with an intense pre-season plan including a self-funded camp to the US for a number of players led by stars including Andrew McGrath and Jordan Ridley.
But it was forward Caddy, the No.10 pick in the national draft who plays even bigger than his 193cm, that caught the eye of most observers on Saturday.
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The newcomer cleaned up swingman Jayden Laverde in a marking contest, leaving the veteran on the ground for several minutes before he got back up and continued with the session.
Caddy also showed his forward craft with two goals during the match simulation.
“I think a few of our backs were a little nervous when he came running through a few contests,” Essendon captain Zach Merrett said.
“You look at highlights in under 18s footy and think ‘Wow, we don’t have anyone like that’. The way he throws himself at the contest and the ball … that’s something we are super excited about.
“Comparisons to (Charlie) Curnow are probably a bit early … (and) put a bit of pressure on him.
“But we are super enthused by his attitude to want to get better.
“He was eager to get into the club and he has been a bit frustrated that he has been held back a bit by the high performance (team). But long term we are super excited by him.
“I love his personality; I love his energy. He wants to make an impression … he has set his sights on round 1. Whether he gets there or not, we’ll see.”
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Meanwhile ruckman Sam Draper is hoping to return to training by January following an injury-interrupted 2023 season and groin surgery.
Long-time North Melbourne ruck Todd Goldstein looked his normal, impressive self during Saturday’s session and will make the club’s recruiters look clever if he’s needed to fill the No.1 role in Round 1.
“It’s going along nicely (his recovery), it’s a little slow as I had a pretty big surgery but it’s definitely improving,” Draper said.
“I’ve run three times now, and I’m feeling a lot stronger and pain free which is nice. I think I’ll join in some training in January and make some inroads there, but there is no return date at this stage.
“It hurt watching the boys play last year as I definitely love playing.
“Round 1 is achievable, but I don’t want to put pressure on it as I want to be 100 per cent and feel good for the whole season.”
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