On the field, Bryce Gibbs has been one of the Blues' best this year, leading Carlton’s total disposal and tackle counts. Off the field it’s been a big year for Gibbs also, with the 25-year-old turning his back on free agency to recommit to Carlton for another five years.

But that’s not all he’s been up to…

Gibbs has also become of the director of Tushay Clothing, together with his good mates Jordan Russell, and Helen and Frank Ciccone. 

In a recent interview with the Seven Network, Gibbs revealed the t-shirt label began as a conversation over lunch. Through their salon Hair By Ciccone, Helen and Frank sponsored Jordan Russell, who was then playing at Carlton. Gibbs and Russell were already good mates having grown up together in Adelaide and the pair had often talked about having a business together. 

Fast forward from the lunch date to a week later and Tushay Clothing was born. Gibbs admits he’s still learning the ropes but says the label is teaching him a lot about business. 

“At the moment it’s a bit of a hobby,” Gibbs told Seven. “When I’m not at the club training (I’m) coming in here, sorting a few things out, getting on the email, speaking to stockists … and obviously (involved in) the design part as well."

The business is just another way Gibbs has put down roots in Melbourne, after moving over from Adelaide when he was chosen with the No.1 draft pick in 2006. When asked about the prospect of free agency and the possibility of returning to South Australia, Gibbs said there was never any doubt about where he wanted to be.

"Getting drafted as a 17-year-old I was at the time, moving interstate, not really knowing anyone here – the club becomes your family I suppose,” Gibbs said. 

“Over the last eight years I’ve loved every minute of it and when it got to making a decision, whether it was going to be for the next two years to five years, I thought: I love this place, this is where I want to play the rest of my footy, if we can get a five year deal done let’s do it – so I was very happy.”

To explore Tushay Clothing visit http://tushay.com.au