The Carlton Football Club embarked on the second stage of its journey under senior coach Brendon Bolton in 2017. 

After registering six wins, the Blues finished the season in 16th place on the ladder.

Despite falling four points short of the 2016 season, Carlton won more quarters in 2017, demonstrating the growth of the playing group in its second year with Bolton at the helm.

With the team now on a break, we’re analysing each player’s year in statistics. Here’s the review for first-year defender Tom Williamson.

GAMES

Season 2017: 15

Career: 15

GOALS 

Season 2017: 1

Career: 1

KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets)

Disposals: 182 (12.13) Kicks: 116 (7.73) Marks: 51 (3.40) Contested possessions: 48 (3.20) Rebound 50s: 35 (2.33) Intercepts: 44 (2.93) Tackles: 35 (2.33)

OVERVIEW

Poise and composure were the standout traits of Tom Williamson in his first season in the navy blue.

Taken at pick 61 in the 2016 national draft, Williamson transitioned smoothly into the Blues’ half-back line, featuring in 15 of 22 games.

The youngster didn’t have to wait long to make his senior debut, named in the team to take on arch-rival Essendon at the MCG in Round 3. 

After collecting an impressive 15 disposals against the Bombers, the 18-year-old played the following nine matches before missing a month of footy with injury. 

Despite the setback, Williamson made an immediate return to the senior side in Round 18, missing just one more match with illness. 

Delighting the Blues faithful with his dash out of defence and his class in possession in his first season, the emerging defender will be sure to excite again in 2018.

BEST PERFORMANCE

Williamson was a key contributor in the Blues’ stunning 19–point win over Sydney in Round 6.

Despite it being just his fourth senior appearance, the No.31 stood up to register an equal career-high 18 disposals, three tackles, two rebound 50s and five one-percenters against the Swans.

SEASON HIGHLIGHT

Pressure was no issue for Williamson lining up for his first AFL goal in the Round 8 clash with St Kilda. 

Slotting the major in the dying stages of the third quarter, Williamson was swarmed by his teammates after he narrowed the margin to 11 points.  

Williamson is swarmed by teammates after kicking his first AFL goal. (Photo: AFL Media)