Jake Stringer has never been one to shy away from big moments on a football field.

In 50 games of senior football, the 21-year-old has filled his highlights reel with boundary line snaps, one-handed marks and exhilarating acceleration through congested packs.

Following the announcement on Tuesday night of Stringer’s place in the All-Australian side, the forward highlighted his typical off-field modesty.

“Being so young, to be standing up there alongside players who I’d been watching week in, week out since I was 15 and really wanted to play AFL football… it’s hard to explain and was a bit surreal,” the Bendigo-local told the Bendigo Advertiser.

“It’s hard to put into words, but it’s nice to be recognised for the year that I and the Western Bulldogs have had.”

And the year he had was quite impressive for a player in only their third year in the AFL system.

Finishing the year with 56 goals and fifth on the Coleman Medal tally, Stringer averaged 14 disposals, three marks and more than two goals per game.

“This year is the first year where I’ve felt free in body and mind and feel like I can do anything.

“Whereas in my first couple of years I was a bit hesitant and wasn’t sure whether I belonged in the AFL.

“The belief wasn’t quite there, but then Bevo (Luke Beveridge) came to the Club and just drummed it into me and it took off.”

Stringer notched up his 50th game in the Dogs’ elimination final loss to Adelaide, in front of 60,000 people and said it was an experience he won’t forget.

“It was an amazing experience.

“To play in front of 60-odd thousand at the MCG was spine-tingling, especially kicking a goal in the last quarter to put us in front, which is something that will stick with me for a while.”