Kyle Langford enjoyed a strong first season in the red and black in 2015.
Taken with pick number 17 in the 2014 draft, Langford proved why he was rated so highly as a junior playing in two of the Club’s NAB Challenge matches and proving to be a handy inclusion in the forward line.
Langford’s hard work through the pre-season was rewarded when he was awarded with senior selection in round five against the Saints.
Although he adjusted well to the senior transition, coaches rotated Langford in and out of the Essendon VFL side to ensure that he was given the chance to learn the game.
The 18-year-old enjoyed his time playing with Essendon VFL, understanding the importance of it in contributing towards his long-term development.
“I’ve loved playing with the VFL boys, they’re a great bunch of blokes,” said Langford.
“It was a bit disappointing that we couldn’t go all the way.
“The VFL has helped me develop my own game and it’s given me a lot of confidence when I do go into the AFL.”
Selected for nine senior games this season, the Coaches were impressed with what they saw Langford offer – enjoying the youngster’s ability to play well both across the half-forward line and potentially in the midfield.
“Langford’s future will most likely be as an inside mid and/or a forward,” said Development Coach Mark Neeld.
“He definitely showed great poise for such a young player, and has a natural ability to mix it in a congested-contested situation.”
Eager to build on his first year, Langford has already identified key areas that he will look to improve on in 2016, in the hope of spending less time in the VFL and more time on the main stage.
“We spoke about just getting fitter, and I’ll hopefully move into the midfield group during the pre-season,” said Langford.
“Obviously putting on more weight too and just being a more aggressive and combative player. That’s what they’re looking for.”
With football commitments now completed for his first year, Langford will enjoy some time off travelling with friends before returning for his second pre-season.
