Levi Casboult has committed to a one-year contract extension that will see the versatile big man enter his 11th year at Ikon Park.
The Blues have also signed rookie Matthew Cottrell to a new one-year deal after an impressive season in the VFL.
Casboult will continue his career in the Navy Blue, having played 124 games and kicked 132 goals since arriving at Carlton via pick No.44 in the 2010 AFL Rookie Draft.
The 29-year-old’s versatility was a feature in 2019, with his strong marking and physical presence utilised at both ends of the ground.
Renowned across the competition for his ability up forward, Casboult showed promise in the ruck and shone in defence when he was thrown down back mid-way through the season.
This ability and willingness to adapt to different positions from week-to-week saw Casboult deservingly win the 2019 Coaches Award as well as earn a top-five finish in the 2019 John Nicholls Medal.
The beloved big man delivered a career-best season, averaging six marks and three tackles per game, whilst also ranking elite in the competition for hitouts, hitouts to advantage, contested marks, marks inside 50 and tackles inside 50.
He is the only player in the Blues’ 155-year history to don the No.41 in 100 AFL matches.
Casboult said he was thrilled to sign on for another year at the Blues.
“I grew up a Carlton supporter so to extend my time at the Blues to a 11th year means I can keep living the dream,” Casboult said.
“I have loved my time in the Navy Blue and this year I have enjoyed the different challenges thrown my way, playing forward, back and in the ruck. Most importantly, I’m really loving my footy and that’s helping me contribute.
“Thank you to all those who have supported me during this journey so far. I’m looking forward to the 2020 season.”
Cottrell will join Casboult in the Navy Blue for 2020 after arriving at Ikon Park as a rookie through the Pre-Season Supplemental Selection Period.
The 19-year-old showed promising signs in a number of different roles for the Northern Blues in 2019.
As an elite endurance runner, Cottrell looked comfortable across half back and on the wing throughout his 15 VFL appearances, averaging 13 disposals and showcasing his football smarts with ball in hand.
Cottrell’s best performance of the season came in Round 10 against Coburg, when he put together 18 disposals off the wing and booted two classy goals.
Carlton General Manager of List Management and Strategy Stephen Silvagni said the Club was pleased to extend the contracts of Casboult and Cottrell for an additional year.
“It’s great for the Club to re-sign both Levi and Matt for the 2020 season. They both enjoyed quality 2019 seasons in their own right and we will look forward to them continuing that form moving into pre-season,” Silvagni said.
“Levi is a great story, after joining the Club as a rookie, he worked his way onto the senior list and has earned a 11-year AFL career. He is a great example of someone who has put in the work and is getting the most of themselves as a footballer and as a person.
“Matt has shown great signs in his first year with the Club, he impressed us all with his work rate and desire to get better each and every day, we look forward to seeing him continue to develop in the Navy Blue.”
