“This was a very tough decision for us, Setanta has been an important part of our club for seven years since he arrived in Australia from Ireland,” said Carlton CEO Greg Swann.
“The AFL rules required us to make one more change to our playing list prior to the List Lodgement on October 31st to ensure we have the minimum selections in the 2011 National Draft. Setanta and Paul Bower were the two players out of contract and after a lengthy meeting this morning we made this tough decision. We certainly wish Setanta the very best and I know his enthusiasm will be missed around the Carlton Football Club,” Swann added.
At 28 years of age, Setanta is five years older than Bower, and there is no doubt age played an important role in this decision.
Since making his debut for the Blues in Round 7 2005, Setanta has played a career total of 80 games, booting 67 goals.
He managed 8 games this season, after injuring his hand in Round 11, however returned to the team in Round 24 and played in Carlton’s two finals matches.
The Sydney born, Irish raised big man was taken by Carlton in the 5th round of the 2004 Rookie Draft, selection 62 overall as an International Rookie, after impressing recruiters in his native sport of Hurling.
Setanta was elevated to the Carlton senior list in 2005, making his debut in round 7, 2005 against Richmond at the MCG after being involved in the game for less than six months.
In 2004, Setanta represented Ireland in the International Rules Series and was a member of the Club’s 2007 Pre-season Premiership.
The Carlton Football Club would like to officially thank Setanta for his service over the past seven seasons, he has played an integral role in the club’s steady climb up the ladder.
Off the field, Setanta has been an active participant in the Club’s multicultural program, acting as an ambassador for a number of years.
Everyone at the Carlton Football Club wishes Setanta the very best for the future.
Changes to the Carlton List since the end of the 2011 season:
Ryan Houlihan - retired
Setanta O’hAilpin - delisted
Mark Austin - delisted
Delisted Rookies
Jaryd Cachia
Joe Dare
Wayde Twomey
