Two sign for two years
Andrew Carrazzo and Aaron Joseph have each committed to the Blues for a further two years
Carrazzo 25, and Joseph 20, both commenced their Carlton careers as Rookie Listed players. Ironically both were Carlton's first round selections, number two overall, in the respective Rookie Drafts in which they were selected by the Blues and their lockers are next to each other at Visy Park, Carrazzo number 44 and Joseph number 45.
Andrew Carrazzo was recruited to Carlton via the 2004 Rookie Draft having been on the Geelong Rookie List for the previous two seasons. Originally from East Burwood and Oakleigh Under 18s, he was elevated to the Carlton Primary List during the 2004 season and made his debut against Melbourne at Visy Park in round 21, 2004. He has played 95 games for Carlton, he won the John Nicholls Medal (Carlton Best & Fairest) in 2007 and was a member of Carlton's 2005 and 2007 pre-season Premiership teams.
Aaron Joseph was recruited via the 2008 Rookie Draft. Originally from Glenorchy and the Tassie Mariners he played for the Northern Bullants in 2008 and was selected as a nominated rookie prior to the 2009 season. He has played every game since making his debut in round one this season and his re-signing will see him as a primary list Carlton player from November 1 this year.
“We are delighted to re-sign Andrew and Aaron for a further two seasons. They are important young players, who will play an important role in the long-term future of the Carlton Football Club,” General Manager – Football Operations, Steven Icke said.
"Both players have had to work hard to be given the opportunity to play AFL, having to start as rookie players, and have made the most of the opportunities that they have earned. They are both wonderful examples of the importance the Carlton Football Club places on development and ensuring we provide our players with the best environment and opportunity to improve both as individuals and as part of a team.
“Andrew is a Best & Fairest winner at Carlton and is part of our leadership group. While still young at just 25 years of age, he is one of the oldest players on the Carlton list providing valuable experience and leadership to the playing group.
"Aaron has had a wonderful start to his AFL career since making his debut in round one and his nomination for the 2009 NAB AFL Rising Star Award is recognition of his position in the game.
"The commitment made by both players is another very positive sign for our future and further highlights the desire within the playing group to stay together and to continue to work together to build future success for the Carlton Football Club."