Essendon forward Orazio Fantasia has the rare distinction of two AFL Rising Star nominations.

Fantasia is the nominee for round 17 after his three goals and seven tackles in Saturday’s 19-point loss to Richmond.

The 20-year-old was also nominated after round 23 last season and becomes only the 10th player to double up.

Fantasia made his senior debut in 2014, but remained eligible for the Rising Star at the start of this season because he had played only eight matches.

To be eligible, a player must have played no more than 10 AFL games at the start of the season and be under 21 at January 1.

He has only missed one game this season.

The former Norwood player in the SANFL came to Essendon with pick 55 in the 2013 draft.

“Orazio is one of our exciting younger players who is thriving on the challenge and demands of performing at senior level,” said Bombers coach John Worsfold.

“His development to date has been impressive – he has a deep hunger to be better, learn and improve with each game.”