Carlton star Bryce Gibbs will remain a Blue after signing a new five-year deal, which will keep him at the club until the end of 2019.
Gibbs was recruited to Carlton with the number one draft pick in 2006. He has since played 168 games in the navy blue and last year became the second-youngest person in Carlton history to reach his 150-game milestone.
Carlton’s Football Operations Manager Andrew McKay says re-signing Gibbs is a key step forward in the club’s quest for renewed success.
“At only 25 years old, Bryce is an important part of our immediate and long-term future. We believe he has plenty of football ahead of him, and clearly his intent and form this year indicates his best may be yet to come,” McKay said.
“Bryce is the kind of player you can build around – he is both a highly talented footballer and possesses terrific leadership skills, on and off the field.
“Since he came to Carlton at the ripe age of 18, we’ve watched him mature as a player and as a person. It will be great to see him continue in the navy blue for the rest of his career.”
Gibbs says the lure of free agency was never an issue for him.
“I love the club and I was never going anywhere, it was just a question of formalities to get the deal done,” Gibbs said.
“There’s been a lot of talk about where we are headed, and I hope by putting pen to paper it demonstrates to my teammates and our members, that I have a strong belief in the future of our club.
“On a personal level, I intend to repay the faith Carlton has shown in me, and finish my career as a one-club player.”
Gibbs joins Marc Murphy, Kade Simpson, Andrew Walker and Dylan Buckley in recommitting to Carlton this season.
Gibbs’ Stats
DOB: 15 March 1989
Debut: Round 1, 2007 v Richmond
Games: 168
Goals: 91
Guernsey No: 4
Carlton Player No: 1100
