One of Carlton’s newest recruits, Sam Kerridge says he’s “really excited” to make his way to Ikon Park.
The former Crow, who made his debut in Round 3, 2012 v Hawthorn, was traded to the Blues during last week’s AFL Trade Period.
Speaking to Adelaide radio station FIVEaa on Friday, the 22-year-old couldn’t hide his enthusiasm when talking about meeting his new teammates and beginning pre-season.
“I’m honestly really excited, it’s obviously been a busy couple of days and I’m really looking forward to getting there and getting stuck into it,” Kerridge said.
After being picked up by Adelaide with its first selection of the 2011 national draft, Kerridge has played 27 AFL games and kicked 23 goals.
The Mildura boy believes making the move to Carlton gives him the best chance to play more regular senior football.
“I really wanted the opportunity to give the AFL gig a red-hot crack and we (he and his manager) thought this would be the best way to go about it – Carlton is a great footy club.
“I’m only young, so I saw it as a great chance and the best path to go down.”
In the lead-up to the trade period, Kerridge spoke to Carlton coach Brendon Bolton, General Manager of List Management and Strategy Stephen Silvagni and CEO Steven Trigg.
Having the chance to talk to key figures at the Blues reassured Kerridge he was moving to a club with a bright future.
“I sat down and had a little chat to Brendon, SOS and even Triggy which was nice,” he said.
“I really liked what they had to offer and what they were saying, and I really liked the direction the footy club is heading in.”
The goal-kicking utility is hoping to spend more time in the midfield and running down the wing, as well as venturing into the forward line and booting a few goals.
“It’s going to be a similar role – a bit through the midfield and up forward which will be really good.
“Obviously with the rotations going down, being able to run will be really handy, so hopefully I’ll get some good midfield time and spend some time on the wing.”
Kerridge, an exceptional runner, won Adelaide’s 3km time trial earlier this year, knocking long-standing title-holder Nathan van Berlo off his perch.
After calling Adelaide home for the past four years, Kerridge will shortly make the move to Melbourne, with pre-season kicking off in the second week of November.
“We start on November 9 which will be exciting, so I’ll try and get down there early November and get settled in.”
When asked if he can spell Lygon, Kerridge swiftly replied “L-Y-G-O-N” with a laugh.
Good start, Kerridge!
