Rhys-Jones's reputation as a footballer is somewhat sullied by his regular visits to the AFL Tribunal; he currently holds the record for being the most reported player in VFL/AFL history, having had his number taken by umpires 25 times over his 13-season career.
[1] However, when fit and available, Rhys-Jones's versatility, pace and agility made him a valuable footballer; the best example being when he was given the challenging task of playing in defence on Hawthorn champion and AFL Hall of Famer Dermott Brereton in the 1987 VFL Grand Final and held him goalless for the only time that season, resulting in Carlton winning its 15th VFL premiership and Rhys-Jones unanimously being awarded the Norm Smith Medal for best afield by the voting panel.
Rhys-Jones was a superbly balanced footballer, capable of playing in multiple positions and equally adept as a goalkicking option as he was at shutting down opponents.
After playing his 50th game in the 1995 winning grand final team, Rhys-Jones left to coach Frankston in the Victorian Football Association.
The tribunal ruling that he was not allowed on the field forced Rhys-Jones to give his quarter-time team addresses from behind the boundary line.