Kevin Sheedy has coached over 180 players in his 22 seasons at the Essendon Football Club. In 2003 he will have the opportunity to coach a new batch of players - a group of players that will hopefully lead Essendon into an exciting new on-field phase in the history of the club. Nothing excites the four-time premiership coach more than unearthing new talent and he is well known for debuting players in big matches. Sheedy has got to know the 2002 draftees over the last three months during the pre-season and had the following comments about the five young men who Bomber supporters will go to know pretty well over the coming years.

TRISTAN CARTLEDGEWe were fortunate to draft Tristan (formerly from St. Patricks in Ballarat) as he was not expected to still be available when we picked him up. He is an athletic 197cm ruckman who is training well. Tristan has great balance for a big man and is shaping up for an opportunity to play in the ruck or as a tall forward.

JASON LAYCOCKWe used the draft choice obtained in the trade for Chris Heffernan to select Jason who we were pleasantly surprised was still available when our selection came. At 198cm he is a tall athletic player and could develop into an excellent player for EFC. A lot of early work is being done on his ability to read the play and creating a stronger power base for his body. Jason must take his opportunity when it comes - and it may come earlier then expected. A lot will depend on the dedication he develops.

DARREN WALSHDarren is a very exciting young player who has played in senior practice matches and shown some really good signs. He has the ability to run with the ball and he shares well with his teammates. He is the type of good running player who may be able to run the lines like Heffernan and Blumfield in the midfield. There is a bit of excitement about the way Darren plays, he is a bit like a Wanganeen or Long type player. It is possible he could play half back to half forward.

JOBE WATSONJobe played very well in the practice matches. He uses his body very well, and at 18 years he demonstrates excellent vision - he reads the whole ‘field of play” very well. Watson is potentially a Greg Williams type of player. Another pleasing aspect of his game is his unselfish play. Jobe’s brilliance in play is different to his father’s brilliance.

JASON WINDERLICH
Unfortunately Jason has been injured during the pre-season so he hasn’t been available to play any of the practice matches. The coaches are looking forward to seeing him getting out on the ground showing his skills and pace. Being injured has made this a very challenging time for him, but his coaches, teammates and the club will help him get through and focus on the future. He is a fantastic talent and the club was very pleased to select him with our second draft selection.