When Carlton’s 2014 first-round draft selection arrived at the Blues, his aim was to play five AFL games in his first year. Fast forward to the end of the season and Blaine Boekhorst has easily achieved his goal, playing 11 games in the Old Dark Navy Blue.

‘Boeky’ was named Carlton’s Best First Year Player on John Nicholls Medal night at Crown Palladium last week. He says he wants to “continue to build” as a player and not be content with his accomplishments this year.

The 22-year-old Western Australian was taken with Carlton’s first pick in the 2014 National Draft, after impressing in the WAFL for Swan Districts.

Since arriving at the Blues, Boekhorst says older teammates Bryce Gibbs and Dale Thomas have helped him settle in and taught him valuable lessons.

“I started living with Bryce, so he helped me out at the start, and then as a mentor Daisy took over. Daisy and I would flick back through vision and have a few words, so those two boys really helped me with my confidence,” Boekhorst said.

“They’ve also taught me what it takes to get to the next level (by) watching how hard they work and what they do to make themselves that good.”

Blaine Boekhorst with the Best First-Year Player award. (Photo: Carlton Football Club)

The pacey midfielder played his first AFL game overseas, making his debut in Round 4 against the Saints in New Zealand.

A breakout game against the Pies in Round 19 saw the young gun rack up 18 disposals, four clearances and kick a goal.

After a solid debut year, Boekhorst is readying himself for another pre-season, but after undergoing hip surgery it will be another six weeks before he can start running.

“I had a cleanup on both my hips, a bit of bone shaved off – hopefully it helps me next year.”

To help his recovery Boekhorst is heading back home to Perth while he has some time off.

“I’ll catch up with family and friends. It will be a pretty busy time and then I might head away somewhere after that,” he said.