NAB Rising Star nominee Nic Martin has committed to Essendon for a further two years, keeping him in the red and black until at least the end of 2024.
Martin relocated from Perth in chase of his AFL dream, and after training with the Bombers for two months over the pre-season in 2022, joined the club as a rookie through the Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP).
The 21-year-old immediately burst on the scene in round one with five goals and 27 disposals to earn a NAB Rising Star nomination.
Martin has since played six of the Bombers’ seven games, only missing round two due to AFL health and safety protocols, and has averaged 22.2 disposals, 1.3 goals and 12.7 kicks.
He's only played six games.
— Essendon FC (@essendonfc) May 1, 2022
Insane. pic.twitter.com/ipm79JxBNB
With Martin’s strong running capacity, football smarts and accurate goalkicking, he has quickly cemented himself in the Bombers’ line-up this season.
Before joining Essendon, Martin played in WA’s under-18 side in 2020 and featured in Subiaco’s WAFL premiership last year.
He said he was grateful to the Bombers for giving him an opportunity at AFL level.
“I’m so grateful for Essendon, who took a chance on me and saw my potential,” Martin said.
“Firstly, for the opportunity to train with the club and be exposed to an AFL environment but then to be offered a spot on the list is something I’ll forever be appreciative for.
“I’ve learnt so much since joining the club and throughout my first seven games. We’re not where we want to be with wins and losses at the moment but we’ve got a lot of development ahead of us as a team which is exciting.”
General manager of list and recruiting Adrian Dodoro said the club was excited to have Martin commit for a further two years.
“Nic took a chance by moving across the country to pursue his AFL dream and has been an excellent addition to our list,” Dodoro said.
“He has made an immediate impact on the field and continues to look more comfortable at AFL level each week.
“We’re excited about his growth and the continued development he has ahead of him so we look forward to seeing him in the red and black for at least the next two years.”
