The rise of Western Jets co-captain Massimo D’Ambrosio this year has been rewarded with the defender picked up by Essendon in the AFL mid-season draft.
After missing out on being drafted last year, D’Ambrosio has taken a game to the next level and attracted the interest of AFL clubs.
A shoulder injury last weekend did little to diminish interest in the 19-year-old, with the Bombers taking him at pick three in the draft on Wednesday night.
D’Ambrosio, who hails from Point Cook Football Club, is known for his pace across half-back and had averaged 27.7 disposals across his four NAB League matches this year.
He has also played three Victorian Football League matches, including a stand-out performance against Essendon where he collected 25 disposals on the hollow turf of the MCG. He was also part of the under-23 Colgate Young Guns game where he was named as one of the best.
Point Cook on its Facebook congratulated D’Ambrosio on being selected.
“Massimo is the first Point Cook player to be drafted by an AFL Club,” the post said. “The club sends a massive congratulations to Massimo, his parents Louie and Nadia and siblings Marco and Alana. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Western Jets coach Robbie Chancellor said in the lead up to the draft, that D’Ambrosio had been an absolute star and was making the most of being able to play football after a number of injury setbacks and COVID-19.
Essendon national recruiting manager Rob Forster-Knight said the Bombers were pleased with their two selections, with South Australian Jye Menzie being taken at pick 18.
“We are really happy with our selections tonight, both Massimo and Jye will bring different aspects to our line-up,” Forster-Knight said.
“Massimo is a really exciting player who plays off the halfback line and is a really good ball user and has shown he can set up lots of play through his time at the VFL and Western Jets.
Tara Murray
