Draftee, Jordan Houlahan, will focus on his endurance and increasing muscle mass throughout Essendon’s 2018 pre-season.

The 18 year old was selected by the Bombers in last week’s 2017 NAB AFL Draft with pick 49.

Two days later, the South Australian was on a plane to Melbourne to join his teammates at training. Less than a week in, he was put to the test in a 2km time trial.

“It’s been a good first week, there are a lot of names and things to learn but I’ve taken it in my stride and it’s been really good,” Houlahan said.

“It was a really good time trial. I struggle a little bit with the running side so that is one area for improvement. All the boys did alright in it so that was good.

“In the preseason I will need to put on a little bit of size and focus on my running.”

Houlahan said Essendon had fulfilled his lifetime wish when his name was read out on Draft night.  

“Last Friday I was at a family friend’s house, we had most of my family there and a couple of friends. It was a pretty exciting night,” Houlahan said.

“I was so excited to get on an AFL list, you grow up wanting to play football so it’s a dream come true.”