West Coast’s crop of emerging youngsters have received more AFL Rising Star recognition, with Jai Culley becoming the second Eagle nominated inside the opening six rounds.

Culley was a standout in the club’s clash with Port Adelaide on Saturday, booting four goals after being sent from midfield into attack by coach Adam Simpson.

The 20-year-old follows in the footsteps of the Eagles’ first pick in last year’s national draft, Reuben Ginbey, who was nominated following an impressive performance in the crosstown clash against Fremantle in round three.

“It’s a really exciting time with a lot of younger players getting opportunities to play AFL footy together at the moment,” Culley said. “We’re bringing our energy and enthusiasm to the team.

“We’re a really tight group and we think there’s a bright future ahead. We can’t wait to keep playing together for the next few years.”

Recruited as a big-bodied midfielder via pick No.1 in last year’s mid-season draft, Culley’s work ethic has seen him transform his body shape and running ability since heading west last June.

The left-footer didn’t have to wait long to make his debut at the MCG against Hawthorn in round 18, when he laid 11 tackles and won as many contested possessions in a gritty first-up effort.

Saturday’s clash with the Power was just his seventh game and Culley capitalised on the opportunity by kicking 4.1 from 10 disposals.   

The 194cm Dandenong product is averaging 12 disposals, nearly six contested possessions and four tackles in the past three matches against Melbourne, Geelong and the Power.

The Port Adelaide clash was the first time he has kicked multiple goals in a match.

“Unfortunately, we didn’t get the win but at the moment I’m really trying to find my feet and getting more and more confident each week,” Culley said.

“Bit of a new role last week playing up forward but managed to kick a few and have a little bit of an impact.

“It helps playing each week. It’s definitely a step up from WAFL level and at the moment I’m heaps more confident, especially after last week, so I’m pretty excited for this week.”