CO-VICE captains Lachie Swaney and Zavier Maher along with teammates Archie Stevens and Michael Lewis will remain in the Navy Blue in 2024.
Maher is a talented youngster who can play both an inside and outside midfield role. The 21-year-old became a VFL Blue in 2021 after training with the AFL side, playing 18 games for the Carlton Reserves before unfortunately sustaining an ACL injury in Round 1 of 2023.
Swaney joined the Reserves back in 2021 and in 2023 his maturity and leadership skills were recognised when he was selected to be the co-vice captain of the VFL side alongside Maher.
Away from the VFL, the 22-year-old is a development coach for Carlton’s AFLW side. A well-respected team-mate, Swaney was awarded the Best Clubman award at Carlton’s VFL awards.
Stevens made his way to the Blues in 2022, debuting in Round 6 against North Melbourne.
In 2023, Stevens made nine appearances, ranking third in tackles (3.9), and clearances (4.7) for the side. His talent was on full display in Carlton's Round 10 win against Sydney where he collected 35 disposals and laid four tackles.
Playing in 10 matches across the 2023 season, Lewis – who has played 25 games for the Blues since his arrival in 2022 - demonstrated his defensive skills throughout the season, playing on both tall and small opponents as well as featuring down back and on the wing.
They’re joined by another handful of young Blues who have recommitted for season 2024: Patrick Dozzi, Hayden Gill, Blake Kuipers, AJ Mills and Logan Prout.
VFL Coach Luke Power said he was excited that the players will continue in the Navy Blue.
“To have both our 2023 vice captains re-sign along with multiple teammates reflects well on the positive and welcoming culture we have been able to build within our program,” Power said.
“It is a testament to both the players and the staff here at the Club for fostering such a good environment. It's great to see that each player sees merit and trusts in our program and is one that they enjoy being part of.
“Each player brings so many individual benefits to the team and creates great depth in our side and we are excited to explore that further next season.
“I am excited to watch each of these players continue to grow and develop their skills here at the Blues in 2024 and I know they are eager to get back to it.”
Carlton Reserves 2024 re-signings: Ned Cahill, Patrick Dozzi, Hayden Gill, Blake Kuipers, Michael Lewis, Zavier Maher, Liam McMahon, AJ Mills, Patrick Naish*, Logan Prout, Heath Ramshaw, Archie Stevens, Lachie Swaney, Lachie Young*
* denotes new player.
