Challenging induction for Holman
After a tough two-week altitude training camp in Arizona, Carlton players are heading home.
The team will touch down on Thursday morning, just as Melbourne turns on summer’s first heat with the mercury set to reach 40 degrees.
The training camp has been a chance for new players to bond with their older teammates and coaching staff.
Blues draftee Nick Holman says the players have made him feel welcome.
"It was good to meet the fellas and get to know them a bit more," Holman said.
"I've become pretty close with all the first year players, obviously we have a bit in common and we've played in the national championships together."
Holman says training in Arizona was as challenging mentally as it was physically.
But the 18-year-old midfielder is hoping the hard work will pay off in the new year – potentially with an AFL debut – although Holman says he doesn’t want to look too far ahead.
“I just want to play a few good VFL games and hopefully push for senior selection,” Holman said.
“But ultimately I just want to impress the coaches as best I can on the training track and go from there.”