President Mark LoGiudice has told Carlton faithful that they have every reason to be optimistic about the Club’s future.

Speaking at the John Nicholls Medal at Crown Palladium on Wednesday night, LoGiudice said the building blocks are in place for the Blues to move forward.

“There is a distinct feeling of excitement and anticipation as we head toward next season,” LoGiudice said.

“Not only have our senior players and leaders re-signed and committed to the Club, our young players like Dylan Buckley, Troy Menzel, Levi Casboult, Nick Graham, Patrick Cripps and Blaine Johnson are showing great football potential.

“Their development is important for us to be successful moving forward.”

During his speech the president made two important announcements: the first being that Carlton will play an extra home game at the MCG from next season, the second was to award Bryce Gibbs with Life Membership for eight years of service as a player.

A visibility moved Gibbs was humble in accepting the award.

“As a kid you grow up only dreaming to play AFL, but to be a Life Member of a club, and one as great as Carlton … I am very honoured,” Gibbs said.