Dual Brownlow medallist Patrick Cripps inks a Sherrin at Carlton’s come and try day at Deakin Reserve.
Photo by
Liam Nash
Fans of the navy blue were afforded a dream opportunity to meet their AFL heroes last week, with a number of Carlton footballers travelling north to Deakin Reserve for a come and try day.
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Young supporters were given a skills session with AFL stars, including dual Brownlow medallist Patrick Cripps, before fans came out in their droves for a signing meet and greet.
The Blues arrived in the Goulburn Valley following a restructure to its Next Generation Academy zoning implemented last year, with the club beginning its scouting of Indigenous and multicultural talent this summer.
On top of the come and try day, Carlton was also sighted visiting Shepparton Swans and Mooroopna training sessions last Thursday, while senior Blues players also visited Rumbalara Football Netball Club on Monday.
Carlton veteran Zac Williams spoke to media at the come and try day, speaking highly of the Shepparton region’s footballing ability.
“I’ve trained here before (Deakin Reserve), I used to play for Murray Bushrangers ... I know a few boys playing AFL that are from here and grew up here, so I know there’s a lot of AFL ties here in Shepparton and I’m glad we’ve come down here and we’re able to have a kick of the ball with the local kids,” Williams said.
“The NGA zoning has fallen in with Carlton within the last 12 months, and I know there’s a lot of local talent, not only in Shepparton but in the surrounding areas as well.
“There’s a lot of talent here that’s untapped.
“Some kids probably don’t even know they’re good at AFL so you come down to these things and try out and they fall in love with the game, and all of a sudden you get a great story of a kid that’s come through the (NGA) system, and now playing league football.”
The AFL season opener will see Carlton travel to Sydney to take on the Swans on Thursday, March 5.
Shepparton locals were able to get the signature of Carlton's Jagga Smith, who is a hot favourite for the AFL Rising Star award in 2026.
Photo by
Liam Nash
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Carlton's Adam Saad shares a laugh with a fan.
Photo by
Liam Nash
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Carlton's Oliver Hollands at the come and try day signing session.
Photo by
Liam Nash
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Carlton's Mitch McGovern.
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Liam Nash
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Carlton's Lucas Camporeale is set for his second season in navy blue.
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Liam Nash
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Blues fan Arthur Cavallaro isn't shy of signatures.
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Liam Nash
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Shepaprton's Carlton supporter base showed out.
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Liam Nash
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A healthy crowd turned out to get autographs signed.
Photo by
Liam Nash
