Martin Clarke pictured at a Collingwood training session

The 19-year-old former Down minor star has impressed since making his AFL debut for Collingwood last month.

Clarke starred for the Magpies on Sunday with a three-goal performance against the Hawks.

"It's definitely a great honour for me although it is also definitely unexpected," said Clarke.

The Kilkeel native becomes the second Irish player to win a NAB AFL Rising Star nomination after Tadhg Kennelly in 2002.

Clarke has been described as "remarkable" by coach Mick Malthouse after picking up the game, and the specific skills required to play it, in less than 12 months.

"My focus was to get into the side and then once I got in, I just wanted to be clear on what role I had to play with Collingwood," Clarke told afl.com.au.

"I don't think I've done anything too special to get the nomination ahead of some great players."

Clarke said his parents have been extremely supportive of his move to Australia, and they have already been to visit their son in his new surroundings of the Magpies Lexus Centre.

A lot has changed in the year, but I've worked hard and the coaches and resources at Collingwood have been first class Martin Clarke

"At first, they were a bit conservative about me coming out to Australia, but once they've got a feel for how much I'm enjoying it and how good a club Collingwood is, they've just been really supportive," he added.

"I think my brother and sister plan to come over too."

Incredibly, Clarke was informed of his nomination exactly one year after he arrived in Australia.

The Magpies flew him out to undertake a month's trial with the oval ball in July 2006.

It's been a big 12 months for the teenager. He's the new cult hero for the black and white army but he's just glad all the hard work has began to show dividends.

"A lot has changed in the year, but I've worked hard and the coaches and resources at Collingwood have been first class," he said.

"I've just listened to all the advice I've got from coaches and players and worked hard and did a bit extra after training. It's starting to come together now."