STRENGTHS:

+ Versatility
+ Production
+ Follow-up work
+ Defensive pressure
+ Clean hands
+ Contested work

IMPROVEMENTS:

- Athleticism
- Polish

One of the more reliable players through the Coates Talent League Girls competition this year, Issy Boulton was earmarked as a player to watch by the Bendigo Pioneers at year's start. She is well-rounded with her game, has proven to play across all three lines, and has clean hands and great defensive pressure, often finding the ball under immense heat.

Boulton won 65 per cent of her possessions in contested situations, which was remarkable considering the Pioneers small even had games where she took the kickouts. Her work around the ground was noticeable, with a nice endurance base and contest-to-contest focus. She got to the point where she racked up 37 disposals in a game and just brought her own ball to the footy and all over the ground.

Her kicking is technically sound, and though at times she can turn it over - so requires some polish - Boulton does not have too much to worry about in that regard. She is not the most athletic of players - from a jumping and running perspective, but the Pioneers utility covers the ground well and can get the job done both offensively and defensively, ticking a lot of boxes along the way.

Picture credit: Spinkscapes