Extremely talented and versatile, Bate made his AFL debut against the Kangaroos in round five - making an immediate impact. Despite some injury hurdles in 2006 - he suffered a hamstring problem and knee injury - Bate performed to such a level that he was quickly immersed in Melbourne's best 22. He was clearly Melbourne's standout performer against Carlton in round 18 when he gained his nomination - he won the ball 28 times - while he was again the Demons' best against Sydney the following week. He is one of the most promising youngsters in the AFL.