THE Carlton Football Club is delighted to announce the re-signings of Tom North, Cody Hirst and Aaron Gundry to its VFL side for 2022.

With all three players showing positive signs in the VFL this season, the Blues can expect to see them all take their game to the next level next year.  

North closed out the year in strong fashion where the wingman finished the season collecting 20 or more disposals in four out of his last five games.  

The 22-year-old frequently showed he was able rack up possessions, with his strong running ability seeing him become a valuable asset to the side.

Across nine games, North was able to average just under six marks a game, with his best performance coming against Port Melbourne: he took 13 marks to go along with 28 disposals.  

After joining the Carlton Reserves for their inaugural season, Hirst made a strong impression down back, with his strong tackling ability on show all season and was highlighted against Footscray where he laid six tackles as well as having 13 disposals. 

Next season will also bring with it an opportunity for Hirst to showcase his ability at both ends of the ground, with great potential as a small forward.

Looking to add to the two games under his belt in his first VFL season, 201cm ruckman Grundy will have his sights sets on becoming a more permanent feature of the side in 2022.

Despite towering over his opposition, Gundry showed great work rate around the ground and in the contest, showcased by his six tackles against Box Hill back in May.

Carlton Reserves coach Dan O’Keefe said the Club was pleased to secure all three players.

“All three players bring their own, unique strengths to our group and we look forward to see those on full display in 2022,” O’Keefe said.

“Tom strived to improve every week, which clearly showed on the stat sheet and in the games, as by season’s end he was one of our more consistent performers.

“He’s a leader off the field for us as well, and we can’t wait to see what he’s capable of next year.

“Cody plays an important role within the team and his repeated pressure acts within the forward 50 gives the other forwards a spark and ensures we are able to get repeat entries, which is why we can’t wait to have him back in 2022.

“It’s been a whirlwind last few years for everyone and Cody more than most, so we think the opportunity to have him settle in our system will only lead to good things.

“There’s a lot to like about Aaron: with the strong work ethic he shows every week at training he is only going to get better in all aspects of the game.

“We know that the bigger guys generally take a bit of time, and at 20 years of age his best football is still ahead of him. We’re particularly looking forward to the continued development of his ruck work.”

The trio follow the re-signing of 2021 Carlton Reserves Best and Fairest winner Ben Crocker on Wednesday.

Thomas Dev is a student at La Trobe University, undergoing his Bachelor of Media and Communications (Sports Journalism). He is currently undertaking an internship at the Carlton Football Club as part of its partnership with La Trobe University.