Jason Winderlich struggled with injury in his first season at senior level but he still showed enough in the limited opportunities he got to have Essendon supporters believing he could be a long-term prospect in the midfield. The key will be his 2004 pre-season. If Winderlich can get his body right, he will push for senior selection, according to Essendon assistant coach Robert Shaw. Read Winderlich's full report card.

2003 Games: 3
2003 Goals: 2
Kicks 11
Marks 7
Handballs 7
Ave. disposals: 6.0

Fan’s ranking: 4.6 / 10

Robert Shaw’s thoughts:
We didn't see a lot of Winderlich play. He came from the under-18s and played the second half of his under-18 season with a major stress fracture, which really hampered his preseason. He never really got going, but we gave him a few games to have a look at him and we have seen enough to know that he is very definite senior prospect. We think his rapid development will be dependent once again on an injury free and consistent pre-season. I would expect him to be pushing for selection in our top 22 next year.

What some of fan’s had to say:

“The Hawthorn match showed that this young fellow will be a good player for us. A goal-kicking midfielder - what a find. He should train with Mark Johnson over the summer. Not only will he learn the sort of work ethic that even talented young players need to succeed, he might pick up some of Mark’s run and carry, his defensive talents, and, hopefully, his white-line fever.” Damon Beckwith.

“The glimpse we had of him this year was pretty exciting...” Jen Powell.

“Is a very exciting talent and the future of the Essendon midfield. Played very well in the few games he played. If not for injury he would have played a much more important role in the Bombers push for the finals. One to watch next year.” Michelle Bransgrove.

“Too many injuries to judge the man.” Philip O’Reilly.

“I am looking forward to seeing a lot more of Windy in 2004, he looks to be coming along quite well indeed.” Kimberley Worthington.

“Looked to have very big potential as a goal kicker but limited opportunities combined with his debut being in our worst game of the year didn't help.” Jon Ellard.

“Showed enough in his first season to suggest he'll be a key runner in the midfield within a few years. Has the skills, but needs to bulk up a little to compete at the top level.” Shane King.

“Unfortunately we didnt get to see a lot of Jason this season but what we did see showed that this guy has potential. Look forward to see what he can do for us in 2004.” Lisa Marsden.