Domanic Akuei

Carlton Academy graduate Domanic Akuei extends Blues stay

The Blues rookie has recommitted to the club.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Carlton have confirmed young swingman Domanic Akuei has signed a new one-year deal to remain at Princes Park.

A graduate of Carlton's Academy, Akuei joined the Blues after last year's draft period as Category B Rookie.

The 20-year-old will hold the same grading of list spot at the Blues for 2023, with the club announcing a new 12-month contract for the Northern Knights product.

Akuei played 19 games for Carlton's VFL side this season, featuring across all three lines for the Blues' reserves as they managed a semi-final finish, continuing to bide his time for an AFL debut.

“We’ve been impressed with Dom’s increased development this season and look forward to working with him for another year,” Blues list manager Nick Austin said.

“Dom has the unique ability to be a key defender and a back-up ruck, which proved very beneficial to our VFL team and saw him cement his place in that side to play every game this season.

“Coming from the Carlton Academy means we’ve had our eyes on Dom for quite a while, and it’s a testament to the program that they are producing talent capable of standing up and being retained on an AFL list.

“Dom has shown a great amount of potential this year and we’re confident he will continue to grow in his development over the next year with us.”

With Akuei now recommitted to the Blues, only veteran Ed Curnow and fringe midfielder Will Setterfield are yet to be confirmed for their 2023 list.

The Blues have already announced Luke Parks, Liam Stocker, Jack Newnes, Oscar McDonald and Will Hayes haven't been offered new deals for next season.

Published by
Mitch Keating