Carlton will use the JLT Community Series as an opportunity to blood their new recruits, in an effort to prepare its evolving list ahead of the Round 1 clash against Richmond.
The Blues’ JLT Community Series opener against Melbourne set the stage for six new recruits to pull on the navy blue for the first time, including 18-year-old on-baller Zac Fisher.
Carlton backline coach Dale Amos believes the opportunities are important for developing the young talent to be able to thrive during the AFL season.
“You bring the talent in, you give them the opportunity to play, and then over a period of time that builds to a list that look like they’re really ready to compete,” Amos told EON Sports Radio.
“Our list is transitioning and we are starting to get the talent in the door that we need and SOS has done a great job to bring some good young talent in.
“It’s a great opportunity through the pre-season to blood the young players you’ve brought into the Club."
Amos has confidence that the exciting new talent will enhance the Blues' mission for consistency across the 2017 season.
“We’re looking for consistency in performance, but keeping in mind we’ve brought a lot of young talent in again and our list is evolving,” he said.
“It will be a bit rocky in terms of their output - that doesn’t give us an out and doesn’t mean we don’t expect to perform really well every week.
“We want Carlton fans to turn up and be excited by the young talent and proud of the performance we put out and consistency in effort we’re looking for.”
The Blues are set to expose more young talent in their pre-season hit-out against the Saints on Saturday, with 2016 draftees Tom Williamson, Cameron Polson and Harrison Macreadie named in the extended squad.
“We’re really hopeful that Carlton supporters are excited about the players that we’ve brought in and the list we’re starting to build and the style of play they’re going to see every single week,” Amos said.
Carlton’s 29-man squad will be reduced to 26 prior to the 2:05pm bounce at Ikon Park.
