GAMES
Season 2013: 9
Career: 14
VFL 2013: 7
GOALS
Season 2013: 2
Career: 2
VFL 2013: 0
KEY AFL STATISTICS (averages in brackets):
Disposals: 63 (7) Marks: 17 (1.9) Tackles: 23 (2.6) Rebound 50s: 11 (1.2)
OVERVIEW
Season 2013 marked Josh Bootsma’s second year at Carlton, after being recruited with a first round draft pick in the 2011 National Draft.
The 20-year-old from Western Australia earned nine senior call-ups and finished the season ranked 5th among the AFL’s rising stars in One Percenters Per Game.
Honing his skills as a tall defender, Bootsma’s standout game came in Round 20 against the Western Bulldogs – a game in which he laid five tackles and consistently read the play to spoil the ball with a solid fist.
During the AFL’s Trade Period there has been speculation that Bootsma could be on the move back to WA, but Carlton chief Greg Swann said he expects “Boots” will be at Visy Park next year.
IN THE NEWS
On the spot with Josh Bootsma
Blues back Bootsma
Boots and all
HE SAID IT
“Mick (Malthouse) has been fantastic and like a father-figure. He has always backed me and I feel like he’s really helped my development.” - Josh Bootsma after re-signing with the Blues, August 21.
THEY SAID IT
“It’s like he was reading the ball like a forward and playing a defensive role, so he was first to the ball and was defending like his life depended on it.”
– Andrew Walker on Bootsma following the Round 20 clash with the Western Bulldogs.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT
Bootsma collected a season high 12 disposals in the Round 10 match against the Giants. Off the field, Carlton put its faith in the emerging defender, signing him to a new contract that will see Bootsma stay a Blue until the end of 2015.
