BlueBaggers

New face in the team: Jaryd Cachia

2013-05-04T18:34:00.000+10:00

Congratulations to new Blue Jaryd Cachia, who was announced to replace an injured Andrew Carrazzo when Carlton take on Melbourne at the MCG on Sunday.

April Training - 24 04 2014

2013-04-26T16:15:00.000+10:00

Carlton enjoyed its first post-victory training session this week, and the extra spring in the players’ step was an indication of how much the victory over in the west has meant to the club. After three close, competitive outings against highly rated opposition, the Blues were finally able to notch four valuable points and begin their respectable - if slightly delayed – climb up the ladder.

The players looked sharp on the track as coach Mick Malthouse put the boys through their paces, balancing his time between individual instruction and group drills. Malthouse’s guidance was complemented by his support staff of assistant trainers who led smaller groups of the Carlton list through various exercises across the expanse of a sun-drenched Visy Park.

Boundary-side, a select few players undertook restricted activities such as handball drills and non-contact disciplines in an effort to shake off various injuries and soreness. Among the group was ruckman Matthew Kreuzer, on the mend from a damaged thumb sustained against Geelong, as well as young defender Andrew McInnes, still on the road to recovery following last season’s knee reconstruction. Former captain Chris Judd also trained away from the main group, although Judd has participated in a modified fitness and training program for a number of years now.

Fresh from a convincing win in the VFL, regular senior defenders Jeremy Laidler and Nick Duigan both appeared desperate to reclaim their places in the first team with some impressive work during the extended hitout. Another standout from the 26 point victory over the Coburg Tigers was Blues hardnut David Ellard, who put in an energetic effort throughout the morning session.

A sight to warm the hearts of the Carlton faithful during this cold spell was the appearance of injury stricken key forward Jarrad Waite, competing at close to full capacity following a lengthy layoff. The big Blue looked strong and mobile as he pulled in mark after mark, and sent long bombs goalward.

Speedster forward Eddie Betts, sidelined with a broken jaw since Round 1, also looked lively on the track and was involved in heavy traffic training throughout the session, indicating that he cannot be far away from taking his place back in the team.

Of course, the Blues’ hierarchy aren’t going to want to rush anybody back too quickly; however the team list is finally beginning to look healthy once again.

One notable absentee from the main training group was midfielder Marc Murphy, however there were no indications of any injury concerns for the newly installed captain.

Here are some photos from Wednesday’s training session:

Heath Scotland pretends not to outrun Shaun Hampson

Mick instructs Shaun Hampson, drawing heavily on his own 15 goal career with St Kilda & Richmond

A game of tights vs shorts

Juddy & Kreuz: Taking it easy

Andrew McInnes attempts a high jump

Tommy Bell runs away with the ball

Nick Duigan kicks in from the back pocket

A rare shot of Chris Yarran not running

Jarrad Waite - not far away from a senior berth?

The boys gather under the iconic Legends Stand, Visy Park

Blues Training NAB Cup Round 3

2013-03-07T16:22:00.000+11:00

Despite the temperature nudging the mid-30's, the Blues put in a solid final training session at Visy Park this morning, ahead of their Round 3 clash with the Adelaide Crows tomorrow night at AAMI Stadium.

The boys looked sharp during the drills, and coach Mick Malthouse seemed pleased with the effort.

Here are some photos from today's session:

Training gets under way in the heat

The coach provides some direction

Mitch Robinson looks in good form

Jeremy Laidler sets one up for Jamo

Andrew Walker plays big brother to Dylan Buckley

Simon White looks strong on the track

Dennis Armfield watches his long range shot

Mick and Simmo try some Hawaiian dancing

Simon White snaps one from outside the 50

Eddie shows Jeff Garlett how to goal on the run

Jeff shows Eddie that he knows how it's done

Kade Simpson gives himself the thumbs up

Levi Casboult taking one of his shots on goal

Eddie reaches for wide pass

Dylan Buckley lines one up from the pocket

MM jogs over to the playing group

Simmo celebrates a long bomb

Ed Curnow - excited that Big Sammie Rowe is about to fire out a handball

Kane Lucas guides one through - in front of a couple of admirers

Mick calls time on the session

Streets Ahead

2013-02-01T20:46:00.003+11:00

The Blues took a stroll down iconic Lygon St, this week, deep in the heart of Carlton's original hometown.

In an effort to spend time connecting with both supporters and locals, a full regiment of players and coaching staff walked the three blocks along the shady, restaurant-lines street from Argyle Square, all the way to Elgin St, at which corner stands the famous 'Percy's' pub, owned and run by local identity and Carlton legend Percy Jones.

All of the Carlton players who took part in the now traditional walk down Lygon Street spent nearly two full hours chatting with fans, posing for friendly photographs and signing autographs for the many supporters who turned up to meet their idols.

High profile players such as Jarred Waite and Mitch Robinson gave impromptu interviews to television and print media crew, while others, such as second year player Dylan Buckley, and key defender Simon White manned the makeshift Carlton Membership table, set up under the trees in Argyle Square.

Senior coach Michael Malthouse, and his fleet of assistant coaches mingled with supporter while his charges took to the streets, stopping in shops and cafes to greet local business owners and fans.

Here are some more images from the afternoon:

Matty Kreuzer signs a fan's jumper

Marc Murphy breaks away from the pack

New Blue Troy Menzel

The boys pose for six different cameras

Mitch Robinson autographs a young fan's jumper without asking

Mitch and a fan wearing Navy, er...white

A fan helps Shaun Hampson with the spelling of his name

Jeremy Laidler signs for a young fan who obviously couldn't find Chris Judd

Ed Curnow, right before a bird flew out of his hair

Matthew Kreuzer rescues a young fan from a bin

Kade Simpson, fresh from a shave

Captain Carlton considers ordering the veal

An 8 year old kid dressed like Eddie Betts

Andrew McInnes uses Wikipedia to convince a fan that he's a Carlton player

And so would you

Pre Season Blues

2012-02-25T18:09:00.000+11:00

If AFL players think it's tough training in the Summer swelter, think of the poor footy fan who must endure six long months without any football!

As a step towards recovering from this long break, I've been down to watch the Blue boys train a couple of times, while they gear up for the season ahead.

I thought I would share some candid photos of some of the boys in action, to help get us through the long wait...

Enjoy!

Goal Shooting Practice

Gibbsy lining up for goal

Matty Kreuzer takes a shot from 50

Walker has looked fit & sharp during pre-season

Kreuzer trash talks Hampson

Luke Mitchell - a picture of concentration

Walker lines up from half forward

Kruezer attempts to kick over Spiderman

Chris Judd checks out the Optus Broadband deal

Set Plays & Drills

Carrazzo, Scotland and Walker practice a set play

Ed Curnow juggles a loose ball

Carrazzo - upset that he's not being included in the next set play

Coaching staff shows Shaun Hampson how to to keep the ball away from opponents during games

Mitch Carter freezes as he tries to remember how to complete a handball

Chris Yarran - just lookin'

Jeremy Laidler, wondering what he said to upset Andrew Walker

Andrew Carrazzo handballs to nobody in particular

Kade Simpson laughs at Ed Curnow's hair, while Nick Heyne & Mitch Carter decide not to get involved

Matthew Watson & Jeremy Laidler in a marking competition. Watto won this one.

Marc Murphy races into goal

A.J. looking for someone to train with

Marc Murphy, wondering which football to pick up

Jeremy Laidler - pretending to be a Thunderbird

A Thunderbird - pretending to be Jeremy Laidler

Simmo talking up a big fish he caught during the week

Juddy & Jamo - after early injury setbacks, both are looking at playing a part in the pre-season NAB Cup

Jarrad Waite briefly contemplates a switch to soccer

Dylan Buckley, son of 'Father of Dylan', appears to have settled in nicely down at Visy Park

Chris Judd - running laps around the boundary, and around Jamo

Distraught that nobody asked for his autograph at the boundary line

Juddy - back to full contact training

Heath Scotland, modelling a new prototype wrist-guard

Simmo - still going on about that fishing trip

Marc Murphy - looking to his right

And now deciding which way to look next

Match Practice

Kane Lucas breaks away from Jordan Russell. My money is on Lucas for a breakout season

Andrew Walker chases down the ball while Paul Bower closes in

Heath Scotland gets a handball away before being crunched by David Ellard

Eddie Betts swoops on the loose ball

This guy clears from defence

Matty Kreuzer and Shaun Hampson duel in the ruck

This Bootsma's made for Walker

McLean tries to steal Kreuzer's ball. Nobody does that

The game is stopped as Andrew Carrazzo has a question

That guy again, running with the ball

Walker, with another clearance

Bret Thornton runs sideways across the backline - crabstyle

Hampson flies for a strong overhead mark between defenders

Kade Simpson spots someone who hasn't heard his fish story

Hampson cleverly using the force to keep the ball away from Kruezer

Denis Armfield goes in hard with his fingertips

Josh Bootsma is given a tackling lesson by old pro Kade 'Big Fish' Simpson

David Ellard on the burst - looks set for a big season

A golf cart

Murphy, moon-walking in his powder blue boots

Murphy - wondering who the smartass with the camera is

Coach Brett Ratten, retells Simmo's story

Andrew Collins asks if orange makes him look fat

Andrew Walker brushes up on his netball skills

Mitch launches for a big grab

Before landing ballerina style

Paul Bower evades an invisible opponent

Jeff Garlett, another player who has looked sharp early in the season

Josh Bootsma in full flight. This kid can play

Brock McLean unloads, with nobody chasing him

Bret Thornton, with the unusual action of moving the ball forward

Chris Judd, wondering if he'll be home in time for My Kitchen Rules

Simmo pumps another ball forward

Aaron Joseph marks deep in defence

Marc Murphy in classic drop punt pose

Jordan Russell misunderstood the coach's instruction to 'take Bootsma to the forward line'

McLean, not realising the game has finished

Game over - the boys take a well deserved drink

WrestleMania

The players say goodbye at the end of a long training session

Andrew Walker fights to get his sock back

It can be hard to say goodbye at times

Aaron Joseph and Denis Armfield. Said to be 'close'

Sam Rowe thinks he's found Andrew Walker's sock

Paul Bower goes in hard with the armpit

Sam Rowe gives up.

And it all ends in laughter

And so with the NAB Cup underway, and our boys set to put in a solid pre-season tournament, I hope these few training shots have helped you through this long, hot Summer.

It's all about the footy from here on in - See you there!

New Blues

2012-01-20T16:33:00.000+11:00

Recently I was given the opportunity to put a few questions to the three players taken by Carlton in the 2011 National Draft. Here are their responses:

1. Having now spent a few weeks as a Carlton player, what has impressed you most about the club?

Sam Rowe
The facilities are incredible. The Visy Park surface is like carpet and the gym really is world-class. Using the altitude room has also been surreal.

Dylan Buckley
The way the boys have accepted me and the rest of the new guys. They have really made me feel a part of the Club. The staff have also been fantastic.

Josh Bootsma
It’s been a buzz. The professionalism of the AFL system is the first thing that I noticed. The facilities are also unbelievable.

2. At what point did you realise that you were being seriously considered as a selection by Carlton?

Sam Rowe
I’d spoken to the Blues last year and thought I might be taken in the 2010 draft, but we decided that finishing my apprenticeship was important. Luckily enough, they were still interested in me this year and I’m just so happy to be here.

Dylan Buckley
I was lucky in that I’ve known all year that I’d be selected via the father-son rule, so that took a lot of stress out of it. I’ve been able to concentrate on my VCE without being anxious about where I’d be next year.

Josh Bootsma
I spoke to Carlton during the AFL Draft Combine but I had no idea whether I’d be selected on draft night. I’m really happy to be here, though.

3. What would you say are your strengths?

Sam Rowe
I can crash a pack and I’m able to switch from the ruck to the forward line.

Dylan Buckley
My pace is my greatest weapon.

Josh Bootsma
I have good closing speed and I can play in a variety of positions.

4. What areas do you feel you need to improve on?

Sam Rowe
Probably my stamina, but I’ve come from a system where football is a part-time profession, so I’m sure that will improve now that I'm at Carlton.

Dylan Buckley
I definitely need to bulk up.

Josh Bootsma
I need to get stronger to be able to compete at an AFL level.

5. What goals are you hoping to achieve at the club in season 2012?

Sam Rowe
I really want to prove myself and, obviously, making my debut would be a dream. I’ll just do everything to my best ability and hopefully things fall into place.

Dylan Buckley
To be the best Clubman that I can be.

Josh Bootsma
I want to prove myself at the Club and show that I can compete with the more senior guys at training.

6. What are your interests outside of football?

Sam Rowe
I love carpentry and working with my hands.

Dylan Buckley
Spending time with mates.

Josh Bootsma
Love music and movies. Will Ferrell is one of my favourite actors.

7. Who stood out at the 2011 AFL draft for you, as 'one to watch' for the future?

Sam Rowe
I didn't see a lot of the crop of young players, but having trained with Josh and Dylan for the last couple of weeks, I can tell they’re both going to be handy players!

Dylan Buckley
Jonathon Patton is a fantastic forward. He’ll be a force in years to come.

Josh Bootsma
Stephen Coniglio is a very good player. He'll probably play in 2012.

I'd like to thank the players, and the Carlton Football Club for helping to facilitate this.

Carlton Draftees Meet & Greet

2012-01-14T18:26:00.000+11:00

Just prior to Christmas, the Carlton Football Club held a 'Meet & Greet' of the 2011 National AFL Draftees, to introduce the three new boys to the Blues' members and supporters. The afternoon was also designed to provide behind the scenes insights into the complex and exhausting recruiting process.

A group of about 50 people enjoyed a lunch hosted by respected AFL journalist and Blues aficionado Tony DeBolfo. Some past Carlton greats, along with current staff, spoke at length about the current state of play down at the Blues, as well as the recent selections of draftees Josh Bootsma, Sam Rowe, and Dylan Buckley.

Tony DeBolfo's first guest was former Blue captain Andrew McKay, who was recently appointed to the position of General Manager of Football Operations down at Carlton.

Andrew spoke about his memories of being drafted by the Blues during the 1992 National Draft, when he in fact missed hearing his name called out on the radio due to a mixup with the state time differences! Andrew was drafted following a stellar year in the SANFL, where he finished second in the Magarey Medal count to winner Nathan Buckley (whose name should never appear on a Carlton blog again!).

Andrew also shared a story of how he was fined $10,000 by the AFL for 'trying to prejudice the national draft', as a result of him writing to some AFL clubs prior to being drafted, stating that he was not interested in joining them. I'm not sure if he or Carlton paid the fine, but in any case it was a worthy investment considering McKay's distinguished and successful career at the mighty Blues!

McKay on the dash - probably carving up Collingwood

Andrew's advice for the new draftees was to try to have something 'outside of football'. This would be particularly beneficial when, as a player, you are experiencing something negative, for example a form slump. An outlet that is beyond your football world can help to 'keep your head right' when the football is not going all that well. I'm not sure that this was ever an issue for Andrew himself, however it was sound advice. Andrew, of course, studied veterinarian science whilst playing football, and was successful in this field also. He admitted that giving up his veterinary work was the hardest decision he faced when weighing up accepting the Carlton job.

Other Andrew McKay thoughts:

On his impact in his role as Football Operations GM:

"I can't see any big changes in the near future. Things are going well at the moment."

On Chris Judd:

"He's a bit slower than the old #5!" (McKay was a former #5)

"He is probably the best modern footballer going around."
"Juddy was kicking a footy without an arm sling, days after his shoulder operation."

Post shoulder operation - Chris Judd is back in training

On life after football:

"I miss the excitement of playing in the AFL."

On Carlton's current injury list:

"Warnock is back from his shoulder operation and will start full training in January. We expect him to be right for Round 1."

"Waite is back training also, and should be right for the NAB Cup."

Waite Training - Jarrod Waite has started pre-season training at Visy Park

The next speaker was Carlton's National Recruiting Manager, Wayne Hughes. Wayne is the brains behind the massive undertaking that is the Blues recruiting process. He puts in an enormous amount of hours each week, and works almost a full 12 months each year. His job has taken him around the world, and he has even been fortunate enough to spend time with the New York Jets recruiting team, learning invaluable tips from them.

Wayne spoke at length about the recruiting system, and how his year is broken up between football clinics, competitions and various other activities. When asked if his role at the club is in fact more important than coach Brett Ratten's, Hughes joked, "Yes, of course it is. It's just not reflected in the salary!"

Carlton's recruiter extraordinaire - Wayne Hughes

Other Wayne Hughes thoughts:

On the impact of the concessions allocated to fledging AFL clubs like Gold Coast and GWS:

"Carlton will spend more time looking at mature age players nowadays, although we have been successful at doing this in past anyway. Players like Mitch Robinson, Michael Jamison and Jeff Garlett were all mature aged players when we picked them up."

On the film 'Moneyball', in which actor Brad Pitt manages a professional baseball team:

"I loved that film. I just don't think the same tactics in the film would translate to the AFL. I could see it possibly working in cricket, though."

On the impact that free agency may have on list management:

"It will depend on Carlton's tactics at the time. I learnt from the New York Jets people that you can either defend your current list, attack another teams list, or do a combination of both. Carlton will probably use a combination of both approaches. There will also be reliance on player loyalty."

On NFL players looking to switch codes and trying out for the AFL:

"There is some interest in America. The AFL is in fact currently running a program to look for potential recruits."

Wayne provided his thoughts on the three players selected in the 2011 National Draft:

On Josh Bootsma:

"A skilful player. Josh makes good decisions with the football. We picked him first because we thought that he would get picked up early."

Josh Bootsma in full flight at training

On Sam Rowe:

"Sam stood out last year when he was playing for Norwood in the SANFL, when I was over there watching (Nick) Duigan. We think Sam may make an immediate impact to our team."

Sam Rowe's attempt at 'Tebowing'

On Dylan Buckley:

"He's a tough little bugger. When I went to introduce myself to him after a game, Dylan, who was wearing a helmet during the game said, 'The helmet is because I've got a bit of a hole in my head - not because I'm a weak prick!' "

Dylan Buckley - a "tough little bugger"

Following Wayne Hughes was legendary Carlton small man, Jimmy Buckley. Jimmy had been asked to talk first hand about Carlton's famed history and culture, but also provided insight into recruit Dylan Buckley, who was taken under the father-son rule.

Jimmy, who is looking more and more like actor Richard Dreyfuss these days, stated off the bat that he has never tried to interfere in his son Dylan's choices regarding his football. Jimmy told the crowd that although he had always let his son "run his own race" as a footballer, he felt very proud that Dylan had been picked up by the Blues. He has let Dylan know that there is "no better place to be than at the Carlton Footy Club". He said that he knows Dylan will always appreciate the opportunities that the club will offer him, as well as the friendships and experiences he will have at the Blues.

Jimmy Buckley - 164 games for Carlton

Richard Dreyfuss - 0 games for Carlton

Some more of Jimmy's comments regarding Dylan:

"He's good when he's got the ball, and good when he hasn't. He reminds me a bit of North Melbourne's Wayne Schimmelbusch."

"He was always a good kid. Never gave me any trouble."

"He is very independent. Even picked his own manager."

"He owes me about 18 months of board!"

Jimmy also mentioned that the injuries that Dylan has had over the past year or so were the only disappointing aspects to his early career so far. He added, jokingly, that Dylan's injuries are probably the reason that Carlton recruiter Wayne Hughes "got him so cheap".

Son of a gun

But anyway, enough from the old - let's hear from the new!

Sam Rowe was the first of the new draftees to speak. Born in Wodonga, Victoria, but recruited from Norwood in South Australia, Sam told us that he was very happy to be at Carlton after a long football journey. Sam had grown up playing local footy and cricket in Walla Walla, and although "nothing ever happens there", he "loved the place and wouldn't have wanted to have grown up anywhere else".

Sam told us that, although arriving as a mature aged recruit, he believes that his football journey so far, and the experience he has had, has helped prepare him for getting to Carlton. He admitted that he wishes he had done some things differently at the Swans (Sam spent 2 years at Sydney), but "I definitely learned from my time up there".

After four years playing in the SANFL, Sam had believed that his opportunity to play football at the highest level had passed him by. Now that he has been given another chance at 24 years of age, he admitted that he has "the hunger and desire needed to play".

Of the Carlton football club, Sam had observed that "the boys, staff and club have all been fantastic". He said the club facilities were "as good as any I have seen, and the High Altitude Room is amazing".

Incidentally, Sam's mum had made the trip down from Walla Walla to be at the lunch, and Sam mentioned that when he was selected by Carlton, his mum was "very excited that I am closer to home now".

Sam Rowe - staring at his knee

The second of the draftees to speak was Dylan Buckley, who along with Josh Bootsma had come straight from a weights session to join us.

Dylan began by thanking the Carlton football club for showing faith in him early on, and for committing to him before this year. He joked that even though he had an injury plagued season in 2011, Carlton had already signed him, "I'd be here whether they liked it or not!".

Dylan singled out current Blues' stars Kade Simpson and Marc Murphy as players that he wants to model himself on, and admitted that he wanted to learn as much as he can from them.

On his recent injury troubles, Dylan advised that he is now injury free, and is ready to begin full training with the team. He admitted that the training was something that he was still getting used to, and wanted to build up his stamina. He told us that in the previous week's laps of Visy Park, "Jamo (Michael Jamison) was literally pushing me around the track when I was getting tired".

Dylan told us that he was offered his dad's old #16 jumper last year when Shaun Grigg left the club, however he wanted to forge his own identity and didn't want to be known as the 'son of' Jimmy.

Dylan's goals for season 2012 were to have a consistent year working with the Bullants. He understands that he needs to "earn my stripes, cos there will be no special treatment for me".

Dylan Buckley - good even without the ball

The final draftee to get up and speak was Western Australian Josh Bootsma. Josh's father, Brad, had played 23 games for the Fremantle Dockers during 2000/2001, however this was not enough to qualify him for the father-son drafting rule.

Josh, an apprentice electrician, advised that although he had been approached and spoken to by "15 different clubs", it was "unbelievable to come to this club".

Josh said that the support from the players and staff at the club had been amazing, and the other WA boys "have made settling in very easy".

Josh's number one goal is to put on weight, and for the season ahead, he stated that he is "looking forward to playing with the Bullants".

Josh Bootsma - caught by Kade Simpson

We were treated to a highlights reel on the big TV screen of the three new draftees. There was certainly enough on display to see why these three boys were on Carlton's radar during the past year or two. Both on and off the ball play was highlighted, and there is some genuine talent in this group of guys.

This brought the speaking formalities to a close. The club held a raffle (with the winning tickets being drawn by Sam Rowe's mum!), after which it was time to tuck into some lunch and chat with other supporters. There was a lot of excitement and anticipation in the room, and I don't think it was just because of the dessert. It seems that all Blues fans and members are looking forward to an exciting and successful 2012!

Over & Out

2011-09-20T22:32:00.000+10:00

And so it ends..

Despite the weekend's result, Carlton's 2011 season has been one of improvement, excitement and encouragement for the future. Having had the best return of wins in a decade, the way forward is looking brighter than it has for a long time.

A season which culminated in Saturday night's fingernail-gnawing last gasp final, had take Blues fans on a roller coaster ride of highs, lows and bewildering umpire decisions. The off-the-mat performance at Patersons Stadium was befitting of a Carlton team that has seen its past three finals, all played interstate, escape by a total of 15 points. Hardly a disappointing way to bow out of a race, however races are there to be won. And Carlton hasn't won a race for 16 seasons now. The team must now be an even-priced favourite for the next round of heats in 2012.

From the moment that the boys arrived arrived in Perth late last week, there was a sense of purpose and entitlement, that has been (justifiably) missing over the past few years. Carlton had arrived in September to play, and showed this by tossing aside worthy opponent Essendon in Finals Week 1. Essendon mercilessly had the door on it's season slammed shut by the rampant Blues, who had next victim's scalp in its sights by games end.

Watching the game from Visy Park, via an over-sized TV screen with 4,500 other die-hard supporters, there was a feeling that something special may be about to happen. The pre-game burst of Carlton's theme song in place of our country's anthem may have been a sign of what was to come. Saturday's game began as Brett Ratten had hoped; with a flurry of forward salvos, intended to stupefy the home crowd. The plan worked, albeit in as much as you can silence a 43,000 strong support group, and Carlton were off to the start it wanted.

Alas, before the first quarter siren had sounded, the game had taken a turn, and the Eagles were beginning to find ways to bother the scorekeepers. The margin remained relatively close for the remainder of the match, and despite the Carlton boys' spirited efforts until the end, the Eagles were able to finish with their beaks in front. As I tweeted after the final siren, the Visy-based fans rose as one to applaud their heroes once the immediate disappointment of the loss had begun to soften.

As the supporters peeled away from the training ground, there were a few comments made about how the season had been a good one. There was an air of optimism regarding where the coach was heading with the playing group, and mention of some of the 2011 highlights.

Coach Brett Ratten, who as I write, had still not put blue pen to paper for a contract extension, has performed an exceptional job this year in guiding Carlton to its first finals win in over a decade. This, despite seeing some of his most important warriors fall as the September action neared.

Of course, Ratten had complimented his entourage by including proven and experienced footballing personnel, but he is still the man with the plan, and should be acknowledged for the role he played in transforming the team.

After all, do you remember when they told us that Carlton's back line was brittle? That our best scoring options had disappeared along with Fev, and that our one elite player Judd was doing all of the midfield work and would wear himself ragged? I also recall the suggestion that the Blues' list was inferior to that of Melbourne, Richmond and Fremantle! Well that wasn't very long ago now, was it? Who said that anyway, and where are they hiding? I'll like to have a chat..

Ratten's hand in the recruiting of both Jeremy Laidler and Nick Duigan was the shot in the arm that Carlton has needed for years. Both players flourished at their new club, and instantly became fan favourites. Andrew Walker and Lachie Henderson passed each other as they switched ends this year, and the Blues were so much stronger down the spine because of it. Another role reversal that paid dividends was the permanent marching forward of much-maligned defender Bret Thornton, who must have wondered why he hadn't suggested this move himself, years ago.

The transformation of last year's small forward Chris Yarran to running defender, gave the fans another reason to stand to their feet throughout the season, as did the rapid improvement of Mitch Robinson from gutsy cameo roles to gutsy play-maker. Mitch just got better with each week.

So credit where credit is due, and I'm happy to make my bank cheque out to a Mr B Ratten.

We should look back on this season as a successful one for the club. There have been so many wonderful moments. The unofficial mark of the year, the trouncings of the old enemy Essendon, the satisfying wins on the road, including a long overdue defeat of Sydney, close defeats at the hands of Geelong and Collingwood, and individual recognition given to many of Carlton's star players at year's end. I believe that there are even better days ahead!

Who knows - it may be Blue in 2-0-1-2 !!

Eliminate the negative

2011-09-12T15:34:00.000+10:00

Wow - what a win!! Yesterday's victory over the old enemy Essendon was really one for the ages. To watch these two footballing titans - the two most successful clubs in AFL/VFL history - battle it out for a chance to keep their finals hopes alive, was magical stuff!

Sitting behind the Carlton cheer-squad, we were all swept up in the emotion attached to such an important game, as we rode every tackle, flew for every mark, and celebrated every goal as though it was the best we'd seen.

After a bright, yet ineffective start to the game in which we found it difficult to register a goal, Carlton suddenly found itself 13 points in arrears. This seemed an unlikely scenario only moments before, as the Blues appeared to be totally in control, and had the ball down in its forward line for the bulk of the opening 10 minutes.

From midway through the first quarter, however, the Blues never looked back, and apart from some junk-time goals to the Bombers when the game had already been decided, Carlton dominated throughout.

The Carlton boys gave their all, and were totally spent once the final siren sounded. This didn't stop the playing group making their way over to thank the Blues supporters, most of who stayed long after the game had ended, happy to sing the club song again and again.

Speaking of giving their all, a special Carlton mention should go to the club's official match-day Tweeter, Luca Gonano, who tweeted gameplay throughout the entire match, providing up to the minute on-field action, for those unable to be at the MCG. Great effort, Luca!

So now unto the West we go. Saturday’s semi-final sees Carlton take on the much-improved West Coast Eagles. The last time these two teams met resulted in a convincing win to the Eagles at Etihad Stadium. However, as all Blues fans know, Etihad has not exactly been a happy hunting ground for Carlton of late. In contrast, the last time we played over in the West, Carlton came away with a win against the Fremantle Dockers. The Blues have also beaten the Eagles four out of their last five meetings, including two victories over in Perth. There is every reason to be confident in another Carlton finals victory this coming weekend!

The Carlton Football Club has announced today that Saturday night's game will be broadcast live via a big screen at Visy Park, allowing home fans who are not making the trip to Perth, to watch the game amongst fellow supporters, at the Blues home base.

Follow this link for further details:
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/4311/newsid/123219/default.aspx

Stay tuned for an update following Carlton's next training session.

Pre-Elimination Final Training

2011-09-11T01:30:00.000+10:00

Saturday was a very special day down at Carlton. Having been invited down to watch training as one of five 'official' bloggers during the finals series, the day began with a press conference given by coach Brett Ratten, followed by a tour of the facilities and inner workings of the club. Being a life-long Carlton fan, it was an exhilarating experience, as well as a wonderful trip down memory lane, as the five of us were guided through the dark and mysterious catacombs that once led to player meeting rooms, press boxes and recreational areas. Fantastic stuff!

But anyway, enough about me..

Sunday marks Carlton's attempt at a first finals win in 10 years, having endured a barren period since it's easy 68-point win over Adelaide back in the 2001 Elimination Final. Oh how we fans would love that kind of margin over the Bombers this time around!

Watching the boys in their final training session, there was a sense of steely calm and intensity amongst the playing group, which reflected the mood at the club. There were fewer jokes, and less casual conversations between players, compared to what I have witnessed previously. It appeared that the boys' minds were totally focussed on the importance of this massive game, and what it means to the club and fans. There was a real sharpness to the drills, and I left there feeling confident.

To end, I must say that the Carlton Football Club really is a family club. Putting on another sausage sizzle for any supporter who walked through the door at training, was a simple yet warmly welcoming gesture. This club has embraced it's supporters, and taken great strides in recent times to bridge the gap between the club and it's fans.

Win or lose Sunday's final - Carlton is once again a great place to be!

2011-09-09T12:47:00.000+10:00

Well here we are - only 2 days away from our thrilling finals shoot-out with the old enemy, the Bombers. It will be an awesome day, both from a club rivalry and pure football point of view. Let's hope our boys can get the win, and keep the momentum going further into September!

This week has seen the retirement of one of Carlton's favourite sons, Ryan 'Hoops' Houlihan. 200+ games at AFL level is an amazing achievement, and I'm sure all Blues supporters will be sorry to see team sheets without the name 'R. Houlihan' appearing on them from now on. Well done to a wonderful, skilful and much loved Blue.

Two other items of note this past week, were the inclusions of Carlton players in both the AFL MVP nominations, as well as the initial All-Australian squad.

Follow these links for further details:

MVP:
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/4311/newsid/122894/default.aspx

All-Australian:
http://www.carltonfc.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/4311/newsid/122872/default.aspx

Finally, this weekend's game sees Mr Consistent, Kade Simpson, achieve a unbelievable milestone; 143 consecutive games for the club. This creates a new club record for consecutive games by any Carlton player. What a fantastic effort!

Carlton's team for Sunday's game:

Backs: Michael Jamison Lachie Henderson Jeremy Laidler
HBacks: Aaron Joseph Nick Duigan Chris Yarran
Centres: Bryce Gibbs Chris Judd Dennis Armfield
HForwards: Jeff Garlett Bret Thornton Kade Simpson
Forwards: Eddie Betts Setanta O’hAilpin Andrew Walker
Followers: Rob Warnock Heath Scotland Marc Murphy

Interchange: Andrew Carrazzo Marcus Davies David Ellard Mitch Robinson

Emergencies: Paul Bower, Kane Lucas, Zach Tuohy

In: Carrazzo, Ellard, Jamison, Thornton
Out: Kreuzer (foot), Lucas, Russell, Tuohy (all omitted)

Guard of Honour

2011-09-04T13:13:00.000+10:00

Saturday night's game against the Saints was bitter-sweet for me. The loss was unexpected and painful to watch, although it seemed that St Kilda had more to play for. What was a highlight, however, was the opportunity I had to stand in the Carlton guard of honour as the players ran out on to the ground at the start of the game. Why was I out there? I was wondering that myself at the time.

My niece Sophie has received a call from the club earlier in week, asking if she would like to stand out on the ground before the game. Of course Sophie said yes, and I was expecting to just drop her at the players' race and wait for her to finish her duties. We stood waiting while the banner was raised, and then the kids were given the go-ahead to make their way onto the ground. I said to one of the organisers that I would just wait near the race for Sophie, and he told me that I was welcome to join the others in the line-up. So 10 seconds later, there I was standing in the guard of honour with the select few!

The experience helped take the sting out of the loss somewhat. Thanks, Carlton!

And so once more we embark on a do-or-die finals campaign. It is both exciting, and nerve-wracking! Stayed tuned for updates from training!

Open Training morning at Visy

2011-09-02T11:22:00.000+10:00

This morning marks the launch of Carlton's 'I Am Carlton' membership campaign. Blues members were invited down to Visy Park to watch the club train, and this was followed by a 'Meet the Players' autograph session.

Hundreds of eager fans lined up for photo opportunities and autographs, while players and coach Brett Ratten smiled and chatted throughout.

After this meet & greet, fans were treated to a sausage sizzle, and given full access to Carlton's Andrew Walker, who made himself available for more individual photographs, autographs and conversation.

The mood at the club was one of anticipation and excitement, as the team readies itself for the final round of the home & away season, with a place in the finals already assured.

You can follow the new campaign via Twitter, at #IAMCARLTON from this morning.

Ok, time for another sausage!

Getting busy at Visy

2011-08-29T19:50:00.000+10:00

Well I'm heading down to watch the boys train this Friday, as they gear up for what looms as a thrilling final round game against the resurgent Saints.

I imagine that there'll be a real buzz around the ground (Peter Bosustow is in town, after all).

We're all hoping for an injury-free weekend, as the team prepares for their first final, the following week. Will it be the Bombers, or perhaps the Swannies that we meet during week one? Stay tuned, to find out! (or just read the papers..)

2011-08-24T17:10:00.000+10:00

As the 2011 season draws to a close, I'm as excited as ever about how our boys will fare in their third successive finals series! The experience gained from the past two elimination finals appearances, coupled with the desire to go further, should make for a tantalising campaign!

Go Blue Boys!!