BRENDON Bolton spoke of his pride of coaching the Carlton Football Club on his final day at Ikon Park.
Speaking to media on Monday afternoon, Bolton reflected back on his three-and-a-half years at the helm, where he became the 33rd coach of Carlton back in 2015.
After 77 games at the helm, Bolton said his time leading the Old Dark Navy Blues was something he had cherished.
“It’s something I’ll be forever grateful for, to coach a big Melbourne club,” Bolton said.
“I’m obviously disappointed but I understand the reality of the caper. The win-loss threshold just got too much.
“It’s another Carlton-first decision and that’s the way it is.”
No surprise, whatsoever, to see Bolts handle himself with the class he has today.
— Daniel Harford (@HarfSerious) June 3, 2019
He was the biggest crusader for the #BoundbyBlue mantra through his time and lived that today.
I now fear for the lobster & fish off the coast of Tassie. Get the message to them... he's coming!
With 56 changes to the playing list throughout his time at Carlton, Bolton believed the Blues’ list had what it takes to build and grow together.
Led by Patrick Cripps and Sam Docherty, Bolton said the united approach of all involved at the Club would hold the players of the future in good stead.
“The great thing about this group is they’re very tight-knit,” he said.
“I’m really proud that the Club has been really united through a really long rebuild… we’ve had some really challenging realities but we’ve stuck to this plan.
“The Club is going to continue to stick to the plan and I’m sure that if the group stays united, the results will come.”
In departing, Bolton had a final message to the Carlton faithful who signed up in record numbers for season 2019.
“To the Bluebaggers, wow,” he said.
“The last time I heard them yell and scream was the Bulldogs game.
“To all of the Bluebaggers, thanks for your patience. Keep cheering these young guys, because they are inspired by the noise you make on the ground.”