The Carlton Draft is a unique initiative that allows country footy clubs to select former AFL legends to play for them in one-off matches. The second edition of the draft took place in May 2023, with six clubs landing a star player each. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 picks from the Carlton Draft 2023 and how they performed on the field.
Pick 1: Nathan Buckley (Nilma Darnum)
The Nilma Darnum Bombers had the first pick in the draft and they chose none other than Nathan Buckley, the 2003 Brownlow medallist and former Collingwood coach. Buckley donned the red and black for the Bombers and showed that he still had some magic left in his boots. He kicked four goals and had 28 disposals in a dominant display against the Poowong Magpies. The Bombers won by 45 points and Buckley was named best on the ground.
Pick 2: David Mundy (Carngham Linton)
The Carngham Linton Saints picked up David Mundy, the Fremantle games record holder and one of the most consistent midfielders of his generation. Mundy proved to be a valuable addition to the Saints, who faced a tough challenge from the Waubra Roos. Mundy racked up 32 disposals, eight clearances and two goals in a classy performance. The Saints prevailed by 12 points and Mundy was awarded the best on ground medal.
Pick 3: Jordan Lewis (Buchan)
The Buchan Cavemen were thrilled to land Jordan Lewis, the four-time premiership player with Hawthorn and Melbourne. Lewis brought his experience and leadership to the Cavemen, who took on the Swifts Creek Demons in a high-scoring affair. Lewis had 30 disposals, nine marks and three goals in a brilliant display. The Cavemen won by 21 points and Lewis was voted best on ground by his teammates.
Pick 4: Josh Kennedy (Murrabit)
The Murrabit Blues scored a coup by drafting Josh Kennedy, the Sydney Swans champion and three-time Coleman medallist. Kennedy was a force to be reckoned with in the forward line, kicking six goals and taking 11 marks against the Quambatook Hoppers. Kennedy also had 25 disposals and six tackles in a dominant display. The Blues won by 36 points and Kennedy was named best on ground.
Pick 5: Bernie Vince (Maryborough Rovers)
The Maryborough Rovers snapped up Bernie Vince, the former Adelaide and Melbourne best and fairest winner and fan favourite. Vince was a versatile player for the Rovers, playing in various positions and contributing to their win over the Dunolly Eagles. Vince had 27 disposals, seven marks, four tackles and two goals in a solid performance. The Rovers won by 18 points and Vince was among the best players on the ground.
Pick 6: Kane Cornes (Moyston Willaura)
The Moyston Willaura Pumas had the final pick in the draft and they chose Kane Cornes, the Port Adelaide legend and four-time best and fairest winner. Cornes was a hard-working midfielder for the Pumas, who faced a tough opponent in the Tatyoon Hawks. Cornes had 29 disposals, eight clearances and four tackles in a gritty performance. The Pumas lost by six points but Cornes was praised for his efforts.
Conclusion
The Carlton Draft 2023 was a success for both the country football clubs and the former AFL stars who participated. The draft generated excitement, publicity, and revenue for the local communities, while also giving fans a chance to see their favorite players back in action. The matches were competitive, entertaining, and high-quality, showcasing the talent and passion of country footy.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Carlton Draft:
Q: What is the Carlton Draft?
A: The Carlton Draft is an initiative sponsored by Carlton Draught that allows country footy clubs to select former AFL legends to play for them in one-off matches.
Q: When did the Carlton Draft start?
A: The first edition of the Carlton Draft took place in 2022, with eight clubs landing a legend each. The second edition took place in May 2023, with six clubs participating.
Q: How are the clubs selected for the Carlton Draft?
A: The clubs are selected through an application process that involves submitting their details, reasons for wanting a legend, and preferred player preferences.
Q: How are the legends selected for the Carlton Draft?
A: The legends are selected based on their availability, interest and suitability for playing country footy.
Q: How are the matches scheduled for the Carlton Draft?
A: The matches are scheduled according to the existing fixtures of each league, with the legends playing in the regular season games of their respective clubs.
Q: How are the matches broadcasted for the Carlton Draft?
A: The matches are broadcasted live on Fox Footy and Kayo Sports, as well as on the Carlton Draught website and social media channels.
Q: How are the matches funded for the Carlton Draft?
A: The matches are funded by Carlton Draught, who provide each club with $10,000 to cover the costs of hosting the legend, as well as additional support and resources.
Q: What are the benefits of the Carlton Draft?
A: The Carlton Draft benefits both the country footy clubs and the former AFL stars who participate. The draft helps to promote and support country footy, which is an important part of Australian culture and community. The draft also gives fans a chance to see their favourite players back in action, while also giving the legends a chance to relive their glory days and have some fun.
Q: What are the challenges of the Carlton Draft?
A: The Carlton Draft also poses some challenges for both the country footy clubs and the former AFL stars who participate. The draft requires a lot of planning, coordination and communication between all parties involved. The draft also involves some risks, such as injuries, expectations and pressure for both the legends and their teammates.
Q: Will there be a third edition of the Carlton Draft?
A: There is no official confirmation yet, but there is a strong possibility that there will be a third edition of the Carlton Draft in 2024, given the positive feedback and reception from both the participants and the fans.