Within 24 hours of being named an Australia Post AFL Multicultural Ambassador, Lin Jong  was out in Melbourne’s west spreading the Western Bulldogs cheer as part of the Community Camp.

The 20-year-old was surprised and honoured when he was approached about the ambassadorial role but he has embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly.

“It’s pretty good being seen as a role model and hopefully [I can] inspire some kids to play as well,” Jong said.

“I feel really honoured to have the role and am pretty excited and I am looking forward to it.”

Two people who were especially thrilled to hear of the rookie’s new post as Multicultural Ambassador were his parents.

“They are always pretty proud of me, I guess with this role they will be even more proud,” he said.

“They are pretty excited and probably more excited and happy than I am.”

Jong is set to continue honing his technique as a run with player in the VFL but as he enters his third season on the list, the appeal of senior football is getting stronger and stronger.

“I feel a lot fitter and healthier – the trip to America really helped me, I thought,” he said.

“I am running pretty well and am probably the fittest I’ve been and am staying healthy.

“The role they are looking for me to play is a run-with kind of tagger role in the midfield.”

The stand-alone VFL side, Footscray Bulldogs, is expected to help Jong immensely this season and he is already turning to the new look coaching panel for advice.

“Chris Maple has been helping me a lot and just the development coaches, Joel Corey and Ash Hansen – kind of reinforcing my role and what I am supposed to do,” he said.

Playing four games in his debut season in 2012, Jong has built a reputation around being fearless and competitive when the ball is in dispute and will be a valuable asset for the Bulldogs in 2014.