If there was one player that really elevated his game in 2008 it would, arguably, have to be Andrew Welsh.
 
And the fan report card for the 25-year-old has reflected that improvement with a 7.37/10 for 2008, up from 6.43/10 in 2007.
 
Welsh found a new role for himself shutting down the opposition’s best midfielders. It was a job the veteran of 134 games relished and he had some great game against players like Sam Mitchell and Chris Judd.
 

2008

Games – 17

Kicks – 165

Handballs – 130

Marks – 70

Goals – 9

Fan’s rating – 7.37

2007

Games – 17

Kicks – 180

Handballs – 108

Marks – 101

Goals – 9

Fan’s rating - 6.43

2006

Games – 20

Kicks – 226

Handballs – 163

Marks – 130

Goals – 1

Fan’s rating - 6.24
 
This is what the fans had to say about Welsh’s 2008 season:

Rob Apostoloski - great second half of the season. Knights has found the right place for you. Looking forward to a full season in that position.

Dean Liersch - Played well when he had responsibility for a player. May make a good midfielder.

Lachlan McLean - Had by far his best season and kept some of the league’s best quiet and played a good role as a clearance player. He will be very exciting to watch next year.

Rachel Costa - You are my favourite player ever.

Mathew Kenna - Really came of age, fantastic breakthrough season. Well done.

Rodney Broadbent - Andy Welsh had a good year for him and is a reliable player. A true Bomber who can still contribute.

Rachel Coates - Really enjoyed watching Andrew play this year, hope he continues his form for the following one.

Margaret Low - A borderline player, not very consistent, maybe a few injuries was the reason.

Jan Lovegrove - Definitely a growing force in the team, great fitness and commitment. Presents well for the club publicly on TV.

Shane Martin - Key player to the bombers future.

Catherine Harkin - A new year and a new role, and one that he filled very well.

Tony Chen - Reinvented as a tagger. Great tackler. Good year.

Brad North - Matthew Knights has turned Welshy into a real player. Started the year on the fringe and now is an integral part of the side. Don't be fooled by his disposal average of 17.35 - it's how little impact his opponents had that counts. Oh and 4 goals against Collingwood... Brilliant!

Natalie Young - OMG!!! Fantastic player!! Couldn't ask for anything else from Woosha!! He shut down big players this season and I believe that he was at his careers best!! Can't wait to 2009 to see him carry on with his spectacular playing!! Future captain here!! Let’s see if he can go a whole season without getting injured (hamstring) if he does Rnd 17 will be his 150th game!!! Whoop Whoop!!! LOVE YOU WOOSHA!!!!

Alok O'Brien - Best year yet, showed us a whole other side when McVeigh was out, why Sheeds loved him. Little inconsistent, more self belief perhaps, get out of McVeigh’s shadow. Well done.

Nicholas Loschiavo - Finally found his position in the side and played it well. Tagged some of the best and did a great job, well done Welshy!

Fahmid Ahmed - Awesome transformation that resulted in Welshy being the most offensive defensive player in the comp - hopefully continues that next season!