THERE was a moment over summer when Dillon Viojo-Rainbow wasn't sure how much football his under-18 season would hold.
Aftersome soreness in his back, Viojo-Rainbow had scans that revealed aspinal defect. It was found he is missing bits of bone in his back, anabnormality he was encouraged to overcome with more pilates sessions,rehabilitation and management.
The attackinghalf-back not only worked diligently overcome the concern, but also puthis name forward for this year's NAB AFL Draft with a season full ofpromise.
The rebounding left-footer played 12games for the Western Jets in the TAC Cup and averaged 17 disposals, andalso featured prominently in Vic Metro's NAB AFL Under-18Championships.
An energetic, positive character, Viojo-Rainbow has taken his chance to show recruiters his attributes.
Therecurring image of Viojo-Rainbow's season is the 18-year-old bustingout of the back half, taking a bounce or two, and then hitting a leadingtarget on his left side.
Viojo-Rainbow makes good decisions when in possession, and can also shift forward and use his damaging skills closer to goal.
But there is no doubt it isViojo-Rainbow's ball use – by hand and foot – which sits as his No.1trait and he's a nice size (185cm, 80kg) for his position.
Afew inconsistent spots punctuated Viojo-Rainbow's season. There aretimes in games where he doesn't have an impact, and he's hard to notice.Invariably a spearing kick or dashing run breaks those passages, butit's still something to work on so he can produce stronger all-roundgames.
Hisrun, drive and piercing left foot draws comparisons to Essendondefender Michael Hibberd. Viojo-Rainbow's ability to push up to the wingand get involved there is also important and he can mark the balloverhead or jump in for a spoil.
It's likely he sits somewhere in the 20-40 bracket of selections, a pretty even part of this year's draft.
GiveViojo-Rainbow some room and he'll make the most of it. He loves toswing on to his left foot and make the play. He's a lively prospect whowants to be involved in the game as much he can, and enjoys streamingforward with the ball.
