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Hurley bombs into rising stars, twice

Essendon Bomber Michael Hurley has been named round 18’s the AFL Rising Star nominee after the defender performed brilliantly in his side’s 33-point win against St Kilda.

As Essendon’s first pick in the 2008 NAB National Draft (No.5 overall), Hurley has overcome from a gall bladder operation last year and had impressed coaches in training since.

The 20-year-old gathered 18 kicks and 12 handballs plus 13 marks in the round-17 clash that saw him get a nomination.

Essendon coach Matthew Knights said this week the club was pleased Hurley had progressed in the AFL was able to gather experience in both the forward line and backline this season and to see him really grow in those roles.

“We expect this experience to hold him in good stead as a player and we believe his flexibility will be of assistance to the team in the future,” Knights said.

Hurley made his debut in round one 2009 and has played 25 matches including 15 this

Hurley joins an elite contingent of AFL players who have been nominated for the Rising Star twice, after his nomination in Round 20, 2009 after another Essendon victory against St Kilda.

In January the young gun Hurley was involved in an alleged assault on an Indian taxi driver.

The incident occurred last September in the wake of The Footy Show after-party.

All parties, including the alleged victim, had to agree to a court-ordered diversion.