2003
Mark Alvey missed all of the 2003 season after injuring his knee. He underwent a reconstruction and has progressed through his rehabilitation program well. In 2002, Alvey was in the top six possession winners at the Western Bulldogs behind Brad Johnson, Scott West, Luke Darcy, Rohan Smith and Nathan Brown. He was also the leading player that season in inside 50s and he kicked 18.15.
STRENGTHS
Alvey’s lightening speed and silky smooth skills are a trademark of his game. His ability to find the football and then dispose of it with pinpoint accuracy will be of great value to the Essendon line-up this season – particularly those in the forward half. Alvey is no stranger to floating forward and if he gets the ball inside 50m he is more than capable of finishing off his work in style.
POSITION
Alvey’s pace and ball handling skills make him ideal for the midfield or wing. Depending on the team structure this season he could also find himself playing across half-back. The bonus with Alvey is that he has the skills and talent to play a number of positions, which gives the side added flexibility.
2004
After the heartbreak of missing the 2003 season with a knee injury, Alvey will be looking to emulate the feats of best mate Dean Solomon. Solomon played every game last season after returning from the same knee injury. With a full pre-season under his belt, Alvey is fully fit and determined to make a name for himself in the Essendon side and repay the faith the club showed when it secured him in a trade deal.
WHAT SHEEDY SAYS
""Mark Alvey is a bonus player that we have picked up when we let Danny Jacobs go – it is difficult to let tall back-line players go. We do need some pace in the midfield and some good long kicking and Mark Alvey is definitely capable of playing that way for us. He had the ball over 400 times in 2002, before he did his knee. We think that Mark will be a definite bonus for us and after losing the likes of Chris Heffernan and Justin Blumfield in recent years from the midfield, we needed an experienced replacement.""
Watch new recruit Mark Alvey in action this season by purchasing an Essendon membership. Click here for more information about how you can join the team!
