ESSENDON key position player Michael Hurley has avoided criminal conviction but been placed on a two-year good behaviour bond and ordered to donate $10,000 to charity over an incident with a taxi driver in September last year.

Hurley pleaded guilty to fare evasion, recklessly causing injury and being drunk in a public place when he faced Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday.

The 20-year-old said he was very sorry for his actions, which brought his initial suspension by the club for the NAB Cup competition and the first three rounds of the season proper.

"There is no excuse for my behaviour - it was totally unacceptable and I have no one to blame but myself," he told Essendon's website.

"Unfortunately, that night I had too much to drink and I made a serious mistake which I deeply regret.

"I am in no position to lecture anyone but I know it's easier to learn from other people's mistakes and hopefully other young people learn from my mistake. Excessive drinking can have serious consequences.

"Over the past eight months I have been working hard to win back people's trust and respect and I want to thank my family, friends and the football club for their support."

Essendon confirmed that Hurley had also completed an alcohol counselling course, and was involved in community service.

Chief executive Ian Robson said that while Hurley's behaviour was out of character, it was unacceptable.

"Over the past eight months Michael has demonstrated genuine remorse and regret and has shown a strong commitment to learn from his mistake," he said.

"As a club, we will continue to support him in that journey."

Hurley has played 18 games for the Bombers since his 2009 debut.

Last month he signed a new contract with the club after earlier links to Gold Coast.