Strengths: Speed and versatility are two of McGrath’s major assets. His speed and improved endurance means he can play roles through the midfield or off the half back line as a ball carrier. McGrath is also an excellent tackler – he laid nine tackles during his limited game time last season with his closing speed the key. McGrath’s attitude is also excellent – he was a star performer in the 2002 pre-season and he will want to produce more of the same in the 2003 pre-season.
Position: McGrath can play off the half back line or in the midfield. He reads the play well in defence which enables him to carry the football and run the lines. In the midfield he can play attacking or defensive roles. He has kicked goals in the VFL side as a midfielder but Sheedy might also use him in run-with roles as part of the learning process – something he has done with the likes of Justin Blumfield and Chris Heffernan in the past.
2003: Given the departure of a number of senior midfielders at the completion of last season, McGrath won’t be starved of opportunities in 2003 and they will more likely than not come in the midfield. Essendon needs to find players who can step into midfield roles and McGrath will have been earmarked as one of those players. He needs to grab his chance with both hands when it comes along and show once and for all that senior football is where he belongs.
Kevin Sheedy says: I offered Cory the opportunity to be traded back to his home state Perth, but he convinced me he wanted to stay at EFC. He shows great desire and has the type of attitude you really need around the club, his strength of character and personality give him every opportunity to make it. Cory's greatest on-field attribute is that he is a good utility player which is what we need, someone who can play both in the midfield and forward pocket in a similar role to that which Gary Moorcroft played.
