SAM Docherty’s story - especially his recent journey - has been oft-told. 

It’s something that has meant at times, his pure football performance has slid under the radar in some quarters. 

Back for an inspirational return in Round 1, Docherty has consistently been among Carlton’s best players this year, averaging over 27 disposals across his six games so far this season.

The finest of those came in Round 3 against Hawthorn, when the former All Australian was at his defiant best when he willed Carlton over the line by a point, polling 10 coaches’ votes in the process.

Speaking on 3AW Sportsday on Thursday night about his current form, Docherty said the chance to step back into the football bubble meant he was more aware and appreciative than ever.

“That gratitude holds you in good stead in terms of staying relaxed and doing what I get to do,” Docherty said.

“I don’t think I’ve been in that space before because there’s always a lot of pressure you put on yourself in terms of performing and planning. I’m just grateful to be playing footy and being around my teammates, coming into the Club.

“That’s been my biggest learning.

“I won’t say it’s not hard to continually try and practice things, because you can fall back into old habits and put more pressure on to be a better player.

“I do take time and work into my program and in my life to sit back and think ‘what do I have? What am I grateful for? What do I enjoy doing? Why am I doing that?’.

“I’m making sure that I take the time to actually do that to reset myself to be a bit more relaxed and enjoying what I have.”

Away from football, Docherty is also keeping busy and engaged: in particular, in his ambassadorship with Paws4Kids. 

Having been involved for a number of years, Docherty has continued to pledge his support for the program which is centred around using therapy dogs to support kids experiencing a tough time. 

Looking to expand into Ballarat after already branching out to Geelong, Docherty said the time was now to get behind the program, as it closes on a target of $400,000.

“It’s MacKillop Family Services: the campaign they run is Paws4Kids, and it’s essentially that our beautiful furry friends assist some vulnerable children that are having struggles,” Docherty said.

“Their programs adds that interaction with the dogs and helps the children be able to re-engage in school and in education: it’s been really effective.

“I’ve been an ambassador for a few years… we were talking about extending down to Geelong, and they’ve done that.

“[The aim] is to expand down to Ballarat. It’s going to help a heap of kids to be able to re-engage in schooling, which will be hugely important for the future.”

For all those looking to get involved and donate to the Paws4Kids program, you can do so by clicking here!