Jason Winderlich is another of the baby Bombers who has only played a handful of games since his debut last year. A high draft pick (he was a first round draft selection, taken at number 11 by Essendon in the 2002 National Draft), Winderlich is under plenty of pressure to perform.

Winderlich has shown glimpses of the form he is capable of in his three games this year. His speed is his biggest asset – he can run the lines and his pace ensures he can chase down opponents and carry the ball. His consistency has been a problem this year and something the coaching staff will be looking for him to improve in the second half of the season.

At 19, Winderlich is only young, but with strong competition from players like Ricky Dyson and Brent Stanton, opportunities must not be taken lightly. Assistant Coach Mark Harvey puts Winderlich under the spotlight.

Q. Is Winderlich a player who can make an impression in the second half of the season?
A. I think that Jason is actually really starting to live up to the expectation of him being pick number 11 in the 2002 National Draft. He is starting to really understand what the game is all about and what is required at this level, and in turn will bring some consistency.

Q. What attributes of his game can help the club challenge for a top four position?
A. We have played him off the halfback flank and he is starting to give us some real drive. Once again he is moving up into the fitness area of where he really needs to play. That will hold him in good stead not only for this year but for the future as well.

Q. He seems a similar player to Ricky Dyson and Brent Stanton as a player who can run the lines. Is he more the future of the club rather than right now in 2004?
A. He can certainly make an impact in the second half of the year, it is just up to him to do that.