AFL champions to make grassroots return in one-off draft

Eight of the game’s past greats will pull the boots on again this winter.

SUBSCRIBER | February 28, 2022 - 8:00am

While the AFL careers of Nathan Jones, Jarryd Roughead, Dale Thomas and Eddie Betts have all officially drawn to a close, each of these champions will pull the boots on again this winter.

Although their days plying their trade before tens of thousands of fans are over, each member of this quartet will be afforded a chance to add to their legacies at local level.

With grassroots clubs hit hard by Covid-19 across the past pair of seasons, Carlton United Breweries have stepped in to lend a hand with the announcement of 'The Carlton Draft'.

Under the watchful eye of brand ambassador and triple premiership Lion, Jonathan Brown, local football clubs throughout Victoria will soon be able to lure an array of ex-AFL superstars to don their colours this season.

“Being a country Victorian boy myself, I know how hard it has been for many local communities throughout the last couple of years,” Brown said.

“The Carlton Draft will be a campaign that unifies communities across Victoria, with eight lucky clubs getting the chance to have an ex-AFL legend lace up the boots and put on a show. I reckon a couple of them might finish with bruised egos and bodies but it’s going to be fun to watch.”

Though the draft pool currently contains a combined 1193 games and 1514 goals of AFL experience, a further four names are set to be added to the group that already boasts six All Australian blazers, five premiership medallions and a Coleman Medal between them.

Speaking ahead of his chance to boost the bottom line for one of eight clubs, Jones expressed his excitement about being able to do good whilst also rack up the stats.

“I have always loved my local footy and I can’t wait to play my first game since retiring last year. I like to think I have kept myself in good nick so I can’t wait to help whichever club drafts me.”

CUB's Classic Brands Marketing Director Hayden Turner echoed the Melbourne legend's sentiments and claimed the once-in-a-lifetime event will bring some much-needed joy back to the heartland of footy.

“Carlton Draught is a quintessential part of local football around Australia and has a long history of supporting grassroots footy. This initiative will make a real difference to the clubs and communities after a very challenging two years,” Turner said.

“Watching these legends of the game get drafted, then go head-to-head with local footballers is going to be incredible. Whatever the outcome, we can’t wait to have a couple of Carlton Draughts with all the players post-match.”

“Carlton Draught is very proud to have worked closely with the AFL, Fox Footy and the players to ensure this is brought to life and that local footy clubs are supported. Cheers to all our partners for their support to date."