Exciting forward Nate Caddy joined Sam Edmond on SEN to discuss his journey so far, expectations, and how special it is to play for one of the biggest AFL Clubs in the country.
Taking out the Round 9 Telstra Rising Star nomination after a stellar performance against Sydney, Caddy finished the match with 16 disposals, six inside 50’s, three marks inside 50 and an equal career-high three goals.
Although the young Don nodded to wanting to get the job done last year, he was excited to be nominated again.
“It’s cool to be recognised again this year. I probably would’ve liked to get it done last year, but it’s good to push my case again,” Caddy said.
With the second nomination means Caddy joins an elite group of dual nominees, including Michael Hurley who is currently a Development Coach at Essendon.
“Hurley made sure I knew he was a two-time nominee. He even sent me the link to his second nomination game. Made sure I knew he had 30 touches and a couple goals.”
At just 19 years old Caddy has made an instrumental impact across eight games this season. Kicking 11 goals whilst showcasing a unique ability to move up and down the ground.
“It's been a bit different each week, depending on injuries, but having Langford and Wright down forward helps. It frees me up to play how I want and avoid getting stuck on the big key defenders.”
“I’m not a big key forward who can just push blokes off the ball. I use my pace and work rate to get free. That’s how I can beat them, just keep running.”
“Scotty just wants me to get into position early and then play to my strengths. Let the flair come through from there.”
With the emerging star power comes the comparisons to AFL legends like Lance Franklin and Charlie Curnow, which can be flattering but also daunting for the young Don.
“I did see it. It’s cool. Those guys took big steps after 18 games, so that’s the real challenge; can I keep stacking it up?”
Proving his eagerness to learn and develop, Caddy’s thirst for knowledge is evident. He's been picking the brains of former stars like Nick Riewoldt since meeting post-game at the Round 3 vs. Port Adelaide match.
“Riewoldt messaged me after the game. I had questions for him and asked him about a certain part of his craft (Jordan Ridley told me Nick was awesome at it). He’s been great.”
Caddy has leaned into other mentors to help develop both on and off the field, from ex-players like Jarryd Roughead, Travis Cloke, to his uncle (former Richmond and Gold Coast midfielder) Josh Caddy.
“Josh stays away from footy advice. We talk more about life, how to deal with everything that comes with being in the AFL.”
“At Essendon we are also lucky to be surrounded by a lot of great Coaches who are past players, so that helps also.”
Caddy spoke to what it’s like being part of a Club as passionate and as in the spotlight as Essendon.
“It’s a real honour. I love playing for Essendon and I don’t see myself playing anywhere else.”
With the season starting solid at 5-3, Caddy knows bigger tests are ahead understands the pressure that comes with that, but his excited for the future and what is building within the team.
“You can only beat who’s in front of you, and there are tough teams coming up. If we keep building, I think we can keep winning.”
“I think we’re heading in the right direction,” Caddy said.
The Dons will look to continue their winning streak when they take on the Western Bulldogs for ‘Marngrook at Marvel’ this Saturday at Marvel Stadium.
