Carlton players were out on the turf training at Visy Park as the Blues added five players to their list through this morning’s preseason and rookie drafts.
Among the players were Jason Tutt and Fraser Russell, who were already training with the team.
They were unaware of the moment their names were called by Carlton’s National Recruiting Manager Shane Rogers. But as training wrapped up their new teammates got around them with applause and a few gentle ribs – an acknowledgement that both men are now officially Navy Blues.
Tutt was the sole selection in the preseason draft.
The former Western Bulldog delisted himself from his old club, after a deal to trade him to Carlton couldn’t be reached during the AFL’s trade window.
Meanwhile Russell, a former 400-metre runner, has been added to Carlton’s list as a category B rookie, meaning he won’t be able to play AFL next season but will spend the year developing his skills.
Former athlete Fraser Russell is now officially a Carlton player. (Photo: Carlton Football Club)
Tutt and Russell are joined by three new rookies on the Blues list: Billy Gowers, Bradley Walsh and Tom Fields.
Gowers has been recruited from the Oakleigh Chargers. He’s the son of former Hawthorn and Brisbane player Andy Gowers and was unlucky to miss out on selection in last week’s national draft.
“He was the very next player on my list on draft night,” Shane Rogers said.
“Billy is a player with a lot of confidence. He played halfback through his junior career, but we think he’s more of a wingman. He’s a running, rebounding player who is a beautiful kick either side of his body.”
Bradley Walsh captained WA’s under-18s side this year and will bring a wealth of leadership experience to Carlton. He also captained the AIS-AFL Academy on the European tour, and led WA’s under-16s to a championship in 2012.
Bradley Walsh captained the WA under-18s side in 2014. (Photo: AFL Photos)
Rogers says leadership qualities are just one of Walsh’s many attributes.
“Brad is one of those kids who would go to war and die for you,” Rogers said.
“He’s a big-bodied midfielder with an exceptional work rate and will fit straight into our team.”
Meanwhile Tom Fields, the son of former Essendon player Neville Fields, has been likened to Blues’ backman Sam Rowe, for taking the tough pathway to the AFL.
“Tom went from Queensland down to South Australia and played for South Adelaide,” Rogers said.
Tom Fields is the son of former Bomber Neville Fields. (Photo: AFL Photos)
“He could have quite easily stayed in his comfort zone in Queensland and played with his mates, but he took it upon himself to go and better himself in the SANFL, and has had a really good year.
“He has a booming left-foot kick and will play on the wing or half-back.”
