Essendon supporters – like the man himself – have been frustrated by Jason Winderlich’s inability to take the next step and make the most of his obvious talent. They acknowledge injury has been a problem for him but many feel that those players drafted a year after him are now at the same level. Bomber fans want a big pre-season from the talented youngster. They say it is time for him to establish himself in the senior side.

2004 REPORT CARD

Games – 6
Goals - 1
Kicks - 23
Marks - 14
Handballs - 15
Fan’s ranking: 4.34 /10

2003 REPORT CARD

Games - 3
Goals - 2
Kicks - 11
Marks - 7
Handballs - 7
Fan's Rating: 4.58 /10

What some of the Essendon fans had to say:

""Very few chances in 2005, but showed good signs when he got them. Needs a big pre-season, and a huge Wizard Cup to take the next step, and possibly a more regular mid-field role,"" Michael Wyres.

""I think Jason knows as well that this was meant to be his year where he plays regular senior football. Didn't have the year we expected but hopefully can be putting real pressure on the senior squad to play well next year. Wasn't to bad as a tagger at times."" Justin Page

""No doubt Jason is fast and can kick a football. Unfortunately, when you see him out on the field, he still looks like a boy playing a man's game. He's got a lot of work to do bulking up over the off-season if he wants to win one-on-one contests,"" Shane King.

""Has much needed pace but needs to compose himself when delivering the pill. Seems to get the speed wobbles up and helicopter punts into the forward line disappoint. Further improvements in skill and he could find a home on the wing,"" Marc Herington.

""Jason is at the cross roads has not performed at the level required of senior selection. He has good pace but cannot win enough of the ball. Needs plenty of game time to settle in. Others have come over the top with Stanton and co. looking better options,"" Erin Erin.

""Showed glimpses of what will be good skills and breathtaking speed. May become a more important player in the midfield in 2005,"" Glenn Osborne.

""Didn't take his chances when they were presented. Has been overtaken by more recent draftees,"" Paul Hess.

""Has stagnated somewhat in 2004, not necessarily through any fault of his own, rather others have taken their chances in the senior team a bit better. 2005 is make and break for Jason (again?) - he needs to create some opportunities in the senior team in early 2005 and take them by the horn. Needs to work on disposal skills and strength during the off-season,"" Rene Wijnen.