Teen elevated to Blues' senior listCARLTON's Jefferey Garlett has probably had the best day of his brief AFL footy life today, and it is set to get even better.
The 19-year-old, from Perth, was today elevated to the Blues' senior list and was immediately named in the starting line up for tomorrow's opening round blockbuster match at the MCG.
Carlton and Richmond will clash at the 'G in the AFL's opening match of the 2009 season. Interest surrounding the game is huge. It is literally sold out and a crowd of 80,000 is expected. Channel 10 will televise the match live into Victoria after bowing to pressure from football fans and the clubs.
Much of the interest is focussed on former West Coast premiership team-mates ben Cousins (Richmond) and Chris Judd (Carlton), who are likely to line up against each other in the middle.
All of which should give Garlett a fair idea of what's in store in being part of one of the AFL's traditional power clubs. His elevation today comes after the Blues placed ruckman Robert Warnock on the long-term injury list.
Carlton assistant coach Mark Riley said the Blues' coaching staff have been impressed with Garlett's forward pressure and skills in the NAB Cup and Challenge matches.
"I wouldn't like to be a half-back flanker with the ball in my hands in today's game with Jefferey Garlett in the vicinity because he'll run you down," Riley said. "His form with the ball in the oppositions' has been has been fantastic but he's also been able to provide some of that Indigenous magic with the ball in his hands."
Garlett was Carlton's first-round rookie draft selection (No.6 overall) in December. He will become the 1116th player to represent Carlton.
DARREN MONCRIEFF
Darren@AboriginalFootball.com.au
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Last Modified on 25/03/2009 21:05