VFL 2019: Essendon shaping as premiership contender under new skipper Aaron Heppell

With a mix of quality state-league players and local talent intent on proving their worth, Essendon is shaping as a genuine contender for VFL glory.

Dan Jordan will be in charge of Essendon’s VFL team again this year. Picture: Hamish Blair

With a mix of quality state-league players and local talent intent on proving their worth, Essendon is shaping as a genuine contender for VFL glory.

The Bombers have bolstered their squad after progressing to a preliminary final last year, where they fell eight points short against Casey Demons.

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Former AFL on-baller Heath Hocking has re-signed for another season, despite handing the captaincy to Aaron Heppell — the younger brother of AFL skipper Dyson.

Heppell will lead an Essendon side boosted by the addition of Kurt Aylett (Werribee), ex-WAFL midfielder Liam McKenna (South Bunbury) and Irish forward Ray Connellan (St Kilda).

“Our top-end talent is very strong and we think we have got that middle tier, developing draftable talent,” coach Dan Jordan said.

“We have got five or six guys that are probably in that bracket.”

Aaron Heppell is the new skipper of Essendon’s VFL side. Picture: David Crosling

Kurt Aylett is back at Essendon after crossing from VFL rival Werribee.

Signed as a Category B rookie in 2017, Connellan booted 29 goals in 24 VFL games for St Kilda’s VFL affiliate Sandringham in the past two years.

Jordan said the pacy small forward had the talent to return to the AFL ranks.

“(He) was one we actively chased to add some speed,” Jordan said.

“I still think he has got the qualities to be on an AFL list so hopefully we can give him those opportunities.”

Former Melbourne player Josh Tynan has also been cleared to be listed by the Bombers after a series of concussion issues.

Jordan listed wingman Wilson Berry, speedster Nino Lazzaro, key forward Edyn Sibbald and small forward Jake McQueen as players with attributes which would draw interest from recruiters.

Liam McKenna has been elected into Essendon’s leadership group in his first season with the club.

“These guys are entering their second or third years and are really looking to take that next step and become draftable talent,” Jordan said.

“Similarly to (Nick Hind) and a few other guys last year that put their names forward.”

Defensive prospects Daniel Guccione and Dale Marshall have impressed since being drafted into pre-season from Northern league club Bundoora.

“Our depth is going to be challenged and we are aware of that,” Jordan said.

“We want to have guys ready to step up and play some good VFL footy.”

Essendon starts its 2019 campaign on April 7 with an away fixture against Frankston.

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