AS SOMEONE who grew up as a Richmond man in a past life, Adam Cerra knows all about the excitement that the Blues and the Tigers can bring in Round 1. 

Speaking at the Blues’ open training on Sunday, Cerra said that feeling hadn’t subsided with Carlton now just days away from opening its campaign in the traditional fashion. 

Here’s what he had to say. 

 On the buzz before Round 1: 

“Super excited. High anticipation after a long wait over pre-season, but we can’t wait to kick our campaign off on Thursday night, to get into it and play in front of our fans. 

“That’s one thing you miss in pre-season when you’re training and playing in front of no one. To get back out there in front of the fans, we know they’ve been waiting over the summer and they can’t wait to watch us play some Blues footy. We can’t wait to get out there and put on a show for them.  

“We’re always very grateful for their support: we’ve got a big supporter base and there’s no better way to start the week than an open training session to get them all down, say hello to a few faces and sign a few things.” 

On his personal memories of Carlton-Richmond clashes: 

“Growing up as a Richmond fan, I used to go to this game every week with family. I understand the anticipation and how exciting the build-up is from both sides of the fence.  

“My favourite memories… I remember Brock McLean’s goal, that wasn’t a favourite memory as a kid, but looking back it’s pretty cool! I just remember Carlton getting the edge a bit, but they were also tight, close games. I’m really grateful and excited to be a part of them now.” 

On Charlie Curnow and Sam Walsh nearing returns: 

“We know the calibre of players they are which makes a big difference, but on top of that they’re two of our vice captains. In terms of the leadership sense, what they provide on-field isn’t just their football ability but also their ability to help others and bring confidence within the group.”  

On his pre-season, and lessons from his Doha experience: 

“I had a full off-season of training, a lot of work has gone into the body. It’s been well-documented that I went overseas in the off-season, we were able to find out some really good insights from that and helped shape what my pre-season training looked like.  

“I’ve been able to tick all the boxes since then: I’ve done what I can to have a full season, and I’m hoping for a durable and consistent season. 

“It’s probably a couple of little things to keep an eye on, I know my body a lot more than previously. That’s been the benefit of the last year, doing a bit more research and looking into myself a little bit more. It’s staying on top of that with my training, my recovery: that’s all I can do for myself, keep working hard and staying on top of things.” 

On if the team can go all the way: 

“We believe so, but I think every team does at this point of the year. We’re fully aware that the more we take our eyes off the present, this game will humble you.  

“For us, it’s trying to get a good start to the year this Thursday night, staying together, working hard and playing consistent footy. We know if we do that, the result will inevitably look after itself. There’s no point looking too far ahead.” 

On the Club’s partnership extension with IKON: 

“Super exciting news that IKON has signed on for another three years with the Carlton footy club. They’ve been a great long-term partner for us since 2015 and really stuck fat through some tough times. They’re a leader in the industry and we can’t wait to make Carlton’s home IKON’s home as well for another three years.”