AS CARLTON prepares for its final game of the home-and-away season this Sunday, Blake Acres has summed up the year so far — his first for the football club.

One of the first words that comes to mind? “Rollercoaster”.

But, just as much, he regards IKON Park as home. 

In his 10th season in the AFL system, Acres has been in a few environments. He spent six seasons at St Kilda, before being traded back to his native Perth for the purple of Fremantle: after three years there, he sought pastures new, and it would be in Navy Blue where he found himself. 

With Round 24 to come this weekend, and bigger things to come in September, Acres said the prospect of adding to his finals experience - this time in Carlton colours - would cap off an enjoyable first season.

“I’m really excited. It was one of my goals to come in and be playing finals footy: I can’t wait,” Acres told the People’s Presser.

“It’s awesome. I love this club. Since I’ve been here, it’s felt like home. It’s been a great first year.

“I wasn’t expecting the rollercoaster we’ve been on! I was hoping for finals and we’re here now. It’s been a crazy year to date, I think we’ve got a bit to go still.”

Of course, Acres is hoping that the best moments are still to come, as he looks to build on his two impressive finals performances last year for Fremantle this coming September.

But for moments so far, there were highlights in Rounds 2, 20 and 21, among others.

“Favourite win would probably be against Geelong, favourite moment I think is beating Collingwood. That put us in a spot where we really grew our belief as a group.

“Another moment was the goal against the Saints!”

And, pleasingly, he ranks that one highest on his list of favourite career goals — beating out the one he kicked against Carlton while playing for Fremantle.

“I reckon the one for Carlton was better: there was a bit more meaning in it, against the old mob and kicking the sealer!”