35. Martin Gleeson
2015 was Gleeson’s best season to date. Now through his third season at the club, the versatile Bomber played every game this year- the first time he’s been able to achieve that in his short career. Often playing as a rebounding defender and pushing up into the midfield, Gleeson impressed coaches with his consistency on a weekly basis. Going at or above 80% disposal efficiency in 15 of his 22 games this year established Gleeson’s status as one of the better ball users for the Bombers. Look for Gleeson to spend more time in the midfield next season as he builds on his engine in the off-season.
36. Lachlan Dalgleish
Dalgleish turned heads during this year’s NAB Challenge with an incredible running goal, and looked headed to have a breakout season ahead of him. Unfortunately, the speedster sustained an early season injury setback, which put him back to square one. A valuable contributor to Essendon VFL’s successful season, Dalgleish often broke lines throughout the midfield with his pace and agility. Without being able to break into the senior side this year, Dalgleish was informed he wouldn’t be offered a contract for 2016. We wish Lachlan all the best with his future footballing endeavors.
38. Nick Kommer
Unfortunately after an injury riddled 2014 for Kommer, it was more of the same in 2015. Nonetheless, Kommer had the taste of some VFL action, playing three games. We saw glimpses of the manic forward’s best against Williamstown in Round 14 when he had 12 disposals and booted 1.2. At full fitness, Kommer is a valuable cog to the side and will look to get his body right for hopefully what is a big 2016.
39. Heath Hocking
Working his way back from a series of groin complaints, Hocking finished the year off strong playing the last five games consecutively. It was fantastic to see the hard-nosed midfielder in full flight, giving Bomber fans promising signs for 2016. Hocking’s presence throughout the midfield cannot be underestimated. The ability of Hocking to hone in on the defensive traits of the midfield frees up the likes of Dyson Heppell and Brendon Goddard to produce the offensive best. Perhaps Hocking’s highlight in his five games for the year was booting the winning goal in the dying seconds of the Round 23 victory over Collingwood.