40. Ben Howlett:
The hard-at-it and relentless midfielder was a consistent performer throughout 2015. Howlett’s willingness to win the contested ball was essential to the Bomber’s mix in a season where the Club missed the experience of some bigger bodied midfielders. The 26-year-old was at his damaging best when it came to digging the ball out of the pack, finishing the season ranked fourth at the Club for contested possessions, third for clearances and second for centre clearances. Renowned for his tackling, Howlett averaged six tackles a game and finish with 122 for the year. His one game in the VFL saw him gather 19 disposals, kick one goal and lay a massive 18 tackles. In a great acknowledgement of his hard work, the midfielder received acknowledgement for his performance against the Swans in round one. Starting as the substitute, Howlett would enter the game early with teammate David Myers injurying his shoulder in the opening minutes. The 'Bobcat' would dominate a wet game of footy, finishing with 25 disposals, 12 tackles, seven clearances and 11 contested possessions. He was rewarded with three Brownlow votes for his efforts, despite the Bombers not winning the game. Howlett will work on his fitness over the pre-season and will hopefully retain a permanent position in the side next year.
41. Will Hams:
The start of the year looked promising for Will Hams as he was able to participate in his most complete pre-season to date. Overcoming a significant hip injury that saw him sidelined for the majority of 2014, Hams finally made his comeback on ANZAC Day. Hams would play in another two games before he unfortunately he was once again struck down by injury. We look forward to seeing Will return to full fitness and to the senior side in 2016.
42. James Gwilt:
Joining the Club through free agency, James Gwilt quickly became an important asset to the backline. With an ability to play on a mixture of players, Gwilt’s knowledge of the game and read of the play would prove crucial throughout the season. The ex-Saint played in nine games straight during the middle of the season where he lead the Club for disposal efficiency, time on ground and – at times, rebound 50s. When not playing in the senior side, Gwilt was also an important part of Essendon VFL, with his experience important in helping some of the younger Bombers develop. Gwilt signed a one year contract extension at the end of the year to remain at Essendon until the end of 2016.
43. Kurt Aylett:
Unfortunately, 2015 was not the year to be for Kurt Aylett. The natural half-back was unable to make his way into the senior side, after injury restricted much of his development and did not allow him to get any consistency. Aylett showed good signs for Essendon VFL, averaging 19 disposals from the 13 games he played. The Club informed Aylett that his services would no longer be required next year. A popular figure amongst teammates, we wish Kurt all the best for the future.
