STRENGTHS:

+ Aerial ability
+ Competitiveness
+ Kicking
+ Overhead marking
+ Scoreboard impact
+ Versatility

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Composure
- Consistency

Even through wavering form, a trait which has remained consistent in Day-Wicks' game is his aerial ability. At 186cm, he offers decent enough size to hold his own one-on-one, but really excels when attacking the ball and marking overhead. He takes the ball cleanly and has enough pop to leap over the back of opponents, or take the ball out in front when leading at the kicker. It's what makes him a viable chop-out option up forward.

Day-Wicks best showcased his marking prowess at the National Championships. He had a great day out against Western Australia in Claremont, taking seven grabs among his 14 touches of the ball. He also displayed his aerial exploits in the title-deciding game against Vic Metro, very nearly ending up the hero having pulled down a hanger which should have been paid in the goalmouth, but playing on to convert his second goal for a late lead.

A key factor in Day-Wicks' aerial ability is his bravery. He rates himself as a competitor and is willing to put his body on the line when required. Working the high socks aesthetic, he hits hard and can absorb contact, and while not the most outwardly defensive-minded prospect, does enough to apply pressure on the opposition. That type of toughness compliments his flair and x-factor quite nicely.

Speaking of flair, Day-Wicks' ball use shows plenty of it. The crafty left-footer is capable of driving the ball long, but also uses his vision to hit difficult passes on the angle through a variety of techniques. At his absolute best, he creates and converts scores at will, while also helping connect the field as a high forward or midfielder. What's more, he averages around a goal per game at all levels and backs himself around the big sticks.

While he is often damaging in full flight, playing with swagger and confidence, Day-Wicks' conversion rate can sometimes waver. His Coates Talent League goalkicking record reads 15.13, but for all his 'on' days there are some where he lacks depth and accuracy in front of goal. Still, he's the type of player who wants the ball in his hands and will continue to take on the big moments.

Another key improvement area for Day-Wicks is consistency. Coming off an injury interrupted bottom-age campaign, he identified it as something he wanted to enhance this year. Despite an early setback and being tested in roles on every line, Day-Wicks strung some great performances together. Perhaps the best example of his current form is how he had over 20 touches and three goals thrice between Rounds 11-16 - once every two weeks.

An attribute which will please AFL recruiters is Day-Wicks' versatility. With his skill and smarts, he proved capable of playing both high and deep inside 50, while also operating off a wing and even bringing the ball out of defence. The main project, though, will be to develop his on-ball craft so as to decide what kind of split he achieves as a midfielder-forward. Though, he is hardly limited in that sense.