Jake Stringer
Guernsey number: 9
2013 games: 10
Career games: 10
2013 goals: 12
Career goals: 12
 

Season in short:

Number five draft pick Jake Stringer shouldered high expectations well in his debut season at the Kennel. While a sprained ankle delayed his start and a foot injury ended his year prematurely, the boy from Bendigo still managed 10 games. The 19-year-old immediately impressed with his strength, power and goal sense. A highlight of the season saw him gather 16 disposals, five inside 50 marks and snare two goals against Collingwood in round 12, in a sign of things to come.

Stat that mattered:

Hints of Stringer’s determination and ferocity around the contest point towards a very special player in the making but his debut season has already proven he backs himself in front of goals. Kicking 12 goals from 10 games in the AFL as well as seven behinds and eight score assists, the 19-year-old will be a valuable asset in the forward half. There was not a single game where the first round draftee did not impact the scoreboard in some capacity – while he kicked multiple goals off his own boot on four occasions.

What they said:

"[Stringer's] going to get some bruises along the way, because he plays the game in a very physical way, but he's an exciting young talent.He's very level and balanced, and I don't think the game's going to stress him too much – he can handle the mental side of it.So he's got an exciting future."

- Senior Coach Brendan McCartney, before round one

Pre-season focus:

As with most young players, there will be a big focus on building a body and aerobic capacity for senior football this pre-season. 19-year-old Stringer came to the Bulldogs will a lower base than many of his fellow draftees after a severe leg injury restricted him in the lead up to the draft. An uninterrupted and complete pre-season will be the aim for Stringer who will no doubt be motivated to build his running capacity with an eye to becoming a regular fixture in the Bulldogs' senior side of 2014.

In the news:

Macca optimistic about pups

Stringer and Macrae extend deals to 2016

Stringer keen to deliver