Carlton tasted finals success in Season 2013, with a thrilling win over Richmond at the MCG.
But the Blues season came to an end, against Sydney in the Semi-Finals at ANZ Stadium.
With the team now on a break, we’re taking a look back at each player’s year in statistics, next is Carlton’s No.6, vice captain Kade Simpson.
Kade Simpson (#6)
GAMES
Season 2013: 24
Career: 200
GOALS
Season 2013: 6
Career: 117
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets):
Disposals: 533 (22.2) Marks: 140 (5.8) Tackles: 51 (2.1) Rebound 50s: 79 (3.3) Bounces: 41 (1.7) Contested Possessions: 167 (7) Effective Disposals: 427 (17.8)
OVERVIEW
Kade Simpson was one of Carlton’s most consistent players in 2013. He had the highest number of disposals of anyone in the team, took the second most marks, and was one of just five players who played in every game. The 29-year-old took on a new role in the backline this year, which has arguably been the best season of his AFL career. A leader on the field, Simpson was also named Carlton vice captain in 2013, together with Andrew Carrazzo.
Away from the football field, Simpson’s decision to grow a beard this year has generated significant attention. Simmo’s Beard even had Twitter and Facebook accounts set up in its honour. The Carlton No.6 decided to use the publicity for a good cause, and shaved his beard to raise more than $32,000 for Down Syndrome Victoria.
IN THE NEWS
Fish Pays Tribute To Great Mate Simmo
Kade’s Courage Earns Crane’s Approval
Destiny In Our Hands
HE SAID IT
THEY SAID IT
"He's, I guess, that spiritual leader that you hear about throughout clubs. I think he's starting to get some recognition now Simmo, but I still think he's really under-rated throughout the competition.
"I didn't realise it was his 200th, so that probably says something. He doesn't really like to boast about those sort of things, but it's a great reward for him." – Michael Jamison on Kade Simpson’s impending 200th AFL game, Tuesday 10 September.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT
Kade Simpson played his 200th AFL match in the Semi-Final against Sydney at ANZ Stadium, becoming just the second Carlton player to reach the milestone in a final – the other was the great John Nicholls.
In 2013, Simpson was also nominated for the AFL Players’ Association’s Most Courageous Award.
