2003
After an impressive debut season in 2002 where Joel Reynolds played nine games, he had the challenging task of backing up his form in this second year of senior football. Reynolds bulked up over the pre-season and added much needed physical strength to his game. The 19-year-old played 14 games and proved that he has the skills and football smarts to be a regular senior player for years to come. Unfortunately for Reynolds a bout of osteitis pubis ended his season in Round 15.
STRENGTHS
Reynolds has all the attributes needed to play AFL football but the most impressive are his speed and marking ability. Reynolds is extremely quick over short distances which aids his evasive skills and ability to lead when playing up forward. And despite standing 186cm, he is also a very good overhead mark. Reynolds looks a natural footballer and he certainly has the right bloodlines to make it.
POSITION
Just where Reynolds will settle remains somewhat of a mystery mainly because he is so young. His body is still some way off maturing so where he finishes in terms of height and weight remains to be seen. For now he looks likely to be asked to play a role up forward in the seniors but with time the match committee would probably prefer to see him develop into a running midfielder who can take a mark.
2004
Reynolds’ determination and dedication to make it at the top level is unquestioned. He will greatly benefit from having two seasons under his belt and played 23 games. Reynolds’ has continued to build on his upper body strength over the pre-season to help him in contested marking situations. Reynolds’ reads the game well, moves well and has the skills – he has an exciting playing future ahead of him.
WHAT SHEEDY SAYS
Joel has been restricted over the pre-season with some hamstring injuries. He has had a good pre-season with a fitness and training point of view. You will see Joel Reynolds this year with a new body, but he hasn’t lost his speed. I often used to say to him that I was walking past him but couldn’t see him! I think he will play somewhere between wing and half back and half forward.
