Jetta Reverse Grinding. Need trans experise!

[vwphenom]

Hey guys-

I've scoured this forum for a solution, but can't find another case exactly like mine I'm hoping you guys can help me tackle this problem. I have a 2001 Jetta (Mk4) Wolfsburg Ed. with a 1.8T engine. Unfortunately, I'm having recent issues with my manual transmission. I hear a grinding sound while I shift in reverse (carefully and with car stopped). It's been worsening over the last few weeks. Now the 1st gear is tough to shift to, but no grinding with these (only reverse). I thought it might be something to do with the cable. But, if it were the cable, wouldn't the grinding occur while shifting to 1st, 2nd, etc.? What about transmission fluid? Any other ideas?

THANKS!

-saul