Head of List Management Nick Austin brought the Continental Tyres Trade Period to a close with two pieces of deadline day business, first confirming Paddy Dow’s exit to St Kilda and then welcoming Elijah Hollands to Carlton.
The Blues generated an extra pick inside the top 30 of this year’s draft with three transactions completed (including Zac Fisher’s departure to North Melbourne), while also owning three picks in the fourth round of the 2024 draft.
This is what Austin had to say to the media last night.
Regarding Elijah’s reunion with Ollie:
“They’re overjoyed, the guys. It’s fantastic that they can play football together. Elijah transferred to Caulfield Grammar when Ollie was still a child, and Ollie transferred to Geelong Grammar when Elijah was recruited to the Gold Coast.
“They haven’t spent a whole lot of time together as brothers, so they’re really happy to be reunited and to play some footy together.”
The following are the reasons for Hollands’ relocation:
“Craig [Cameron] mentioned it the other day, first and foremost the opportunity, but he’s being played out of position as a bit more on the wing at the Gold Coast due to their spine.”
“We see him as a forward-half player who can push through the midfield.” That’s an area we’d like to strengthen, and we believe Elijah will assist us.”
Regarding Hollands’ fitness:
“Elijah is a natural elite runner.” We believe he can progress to a higher level and say the same thing. He’s a natural runner, so we’ll aim to build on that and add to the mix.”
Regarding Paddy Dow’s departure:
“We had some really good conversations with Paddy and his management this year, and even last year to be fair.” Paddy certainly desired the opportunity, and it’s excellent that he’ll have it. We would have loved to have kept him because he performed an excellent job.
“We were happy for Paddy to progress in football.” He’s a great kid and a diligent worker; he showed there on time and played some good football. We were delighted to assist him in furthering his career, and we hope he is able to do so.
Regarding Zac Williams’ comeback to the team in 2024:
“We continue to see Zac [Williams] as that rebound defender.” We certainly missed his ball use and ability to take the ball off the line at times. He’ll undoubtedly be welcomed back to the half-line.”
On Zac Fisher’s relocation to North Melbourne (as stated on Trade Radio):
“It was about the opportunity for Zac, just like it was for Paddy.” He had two years left on his contract when he was offered four: it was a fantastic opportunity.
“When the whips were cracking this year, he found himself out of our team, so he’ll play some games there while we get back into the draft, which we were eager to do.” It’s probably a win-win situation for both.”
The Club’s draft plan, with picks 22 and 28:
“When we look at the draft as a whole, the pointy end is so exciting, but outside of the top 10-12, it’s pretty even.” We felt that getting another pick and having two close together was the best option for us. We’re certain that we’ll acquire some good players.”
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