Essendon small forward Alwyn Davey Jnr has revealed his "big reflection" following a promising rookie campaign in 2023.
The 19-year-old, son of 100-game Bomber Alwyn Davey Snr, played ten AFL games in his maiden season after being chosen by Essendon in the 2022 National Draft's third round.
The Oakleigh Chargers graduate showed exciting flashes of his ground-level ability and innate goal sense, though bigger bodies sometimes exploited his wiry frame.
Thus, bolstering his physicality formed a key improvement point this pre-season for Davey Jnr as he prepares to embark on his second AFL campaign amongst an improved Essendon forward line.
"I wanted to build a bit more muscle and try not to get pushed off the ball as much, that was a big reflection coming away from my first year," Davey Jnr told EssendonFC.com.au.
"I've pulled up pretty well into my second pre-season, it's tough as always but we're tracking really nicely as a whole.
"I'm still trying to have a lot of fun in my game and not overthink things too much, focusing on using my strengths to my advantage."
Whilst playing as a small forward comes as almost second nature, Davey Jnr expressed his desire to experiment in multiple positions this year, if it means more chances at earning senior outings under the guidance of second-year coach Brad Scott.
"I want to play as many positions as I can, especially if it gives me more opportunities to play in the AFL side," he said.
"I've been happy with what they've done with me in the VFL when I haven't got the chances to play seniors. I'll keep looking to stay flexible."
"I couldn't thank Brad Scott enough for giving me those opportunities last year. Those games help you a lot in trying to maintain your composure for the season to come, and you always want to perform your best on that stage."
Davey Jnr detailed the chemistry amongst Essendon's forward brigade, which received boosts in the form of ex-Saint Jade Gresham and draftee Nate Caddy this off-season.
"We've had a really close connection with all the small forwards," Davey Jnr continued.
"We're happy with how we're going and it's not just about that competition (for spots) either, it's about making each other better and the additions of 'Gresh' (Gresham) and Nate Caddy have really helped that."
The livewire forward's brother, Jayden, continues in his rehabilitation from an ACL injury sustained in March 2022, with Davey Jnr expressing his pride in his twin's resilience.
"It's great news with Jayden coming back, I couldn't be any more proud of him and the work he's put in over the last year which had been really tough for him," Davey Jnr said.
"He's making quick transitions and settling well, I think with some more time he'll be looking to get into the team this year."
Essendon has pre-season matchups scheduled with St Kilda and Geelong before its Round 1 clash with Hawthorn at the MCG on March 16.
