The countdown to season 2002 is on in earnest with the Wizard Cup competition now in full swing. In our continuing Engine Room series we look at the senior listed players and pin-point their roles in the upcoming season. Today we take a look at JOEL REYNOLDS. The raps are big on the grandson of the famous Dick Reynolds and the early signs have been very good. Balanced, highly-skilled and very determined he looks a long-term player for the Essendon Football Club. At 17 he still has some developing to do but the future looks bright.

Reynolds had his first competitve hit-out for Essendon against Sydney at North Sydney Oval and he impressed in the half of football he played. He didn't get a lot of the football but when he did get it he looked very much at home. His pace was a feature of his game. One sweeping run through the centre was particularly impressive when he collected a loose ball and left Swans' players wondering which we he had gone.

His disposal is excellent and he is looking more and more at home at VFL level. Physically, Reynolds is still some way off senior football and that is one area he will work on as the season progresses. Still completing his VCE studies, season 2002 will be a juggling act for the young man. But he is a long-term project for the Bombers and steady improvement through the year will be a bonus.

What will his role be on match day?

Reynolds will play predominantly as a half-back / winger where his pace and ability to read the play can be used to the greatest effect. He may be swung into the centre in short bursts where his smartness around the football could create opportunities to go forward.

What will the coaches expect on match day?

They will want to see Reynolds get used to the tempo of senior football as quickly as possible so he can get a clear picutre of what he needs to work on during the year. They will want him to run hard off half-back and use the ball well.