The Bombers' first pick in the 2009 National Draft - Jake Melksham - is a ""work-horse"" who has already shown considerable talent according to assistant coach Adrian Hickmott.
Speaking on the new Bomber.tv series, Summer Spotlight - which focuses on the Bombers’ new and emerging stars - Hickmott said the former Calder Cannons star has great hands and excellent awareness.
Watch the Melksham Summer Spotlight by clicking here or for fans wanting to see the player in Perth on Thursday 11th February click here for details.
""With that turn of speed he has, he seems to break througn gaps really well,"" Hickmott said.
""The most enjoyable thing for us (coaches) is that he is a great listener and loves to learn.
""There are little things that need to improve but if you say one thing to him he will go out and do that, so that's covered and we work on the next thing.""
Melksham impressed the Bombers' recruiters with a best-on-ground performance for Calder in the 2009 TAC Cup Grand Final.
A highly skilled midfielder, he is capable of playing inside and outside and says he wants to make his AFL debut in Round 1 this year.
To purchase a 2010 Bomber guernsey or other great products click here or get behind the team and become a member by clicking here.
Hickmott said while the 18-year-old is very tired by the end of the week he has handled the increased training load of an AFL club and could play a senior game in 2010.
""He is going really well .. from my perspective he is likely to play AFL (this year) because of his intensity,"" he said.
""He has got good skills, he can take space and is very committed to his football.""
Hickmott said Melksham impressed coaches with some nice efforts in various positions in the recent intra-club match in Shepparton where he spent much of the game opposed to Travis Colyer.
Membership News Update:
More than 20,000 membership packs have now been sent out to Bomber supporters and thousands more will be sent out in February.
The unexpected delay in the mailing of 2010 membership packs is due to a number of factors including an upgrade of Essendon’s IT systems which will ultimately improve the accuracy of club information.
The club is aiming to have all membership packs sent out in the near future and thanks supporters for their patience.
To see behind-the-scenes footage from the Sheppartton Community Camp click here or to view the picture gallery click here.
