Blues youngster inks new deal

Carlton defender Brodie Kemp has signed a new deal with the Blues that will keep him at Ikon Park until the end of the 2023 season.

A two-year extension will hopefully see Kemp add to this raw career, with the exciting talent making his debut late this season.

A string of injuries have kept the Bendigo Pioneers product sidelined since joining the Blues in 2019 as a first-round selection, with a long journey finally seeing Kemp rewarded for his efforts.

The 20-year-old made his AFL debut against Port Adelaide in Round 22 this year, before an impressive performance against the Giants to finish the season.

Blues list manager Nick Austin commended Kemp's ability to overcome setbacks, with the new deal a fitting reward.

“Brodie has certainly had his fair share of curveballs thrown at him in the early stages of his career, but his commitment and resilience to overcome those setbacks has been a terrific show of his character and that resilience has set him up really well for the next phase of his career,” Austin said on the announcement.

“With his height and size, Brodie has demonstrated his ability to impact the contest and be a damaging player across multiple positions, which will no doubt see him assert himself in the years to come.

“We are eager to watch Brodie continue to take strides in his development and are excited to see what he can do once he gains greater consistency next season.”

The announcement of Kemp's new deal follows the recent re-signings of Ed Curnow, Marc Pittonet and Nic Newman this week.

In total, the Blues have been able to retain six players in 2021, with star duo Patrick Cripps and Harry Mckay also signing on past this year.

The Blues have bid farewell to veteran trio Eddie Betts (retired), Levi Casboult (delisted) and Marc Murphy (retired) in 2021.