ESSENDON youngster David Zaharakis is this week’s nomination for the NAB Rising Star.

Zaharakis had 21 disposals and 10 marks in his debut match against Fremantle on Sunday.

The 19-year-old was one of the Bombers’ best in the win, along with fellow debutant Michael Quinn.

Zaharakis was brought in to the side after fellow first-year player Michael Hurley injured a quad at training during the week. His 33-possession, seven goal effort for the Bendigo Bombers the previous week made him an automatic inclusion.

The midfielder was Essendon’s second selection (No.23 overall) at last year’s national draft, which was a dream come true for the lifelong Bomber fan.

He was recruited to the club with fellow Northern Knights teammates Hurley and Michael Still.

Zaharakis co-captained the Knights with Hurley and was also named in last year’s Under 18 All-Australian side.