Friday 21 January. Mark it in your calendar, Bluebaggers. 

Twelve days after the Game Changers get their AFLW season underway, open training will officially be back for the AFL team, with Carlton members back in the IKON Park stands. 

It’s been a long time since open training took place on Royal Parade, with COVID-19 restrictions and renovations at the spiritual home meaning it will have been two years since the last session.

However, as confirmed in an email to members by President Luke Sayers, January 2022 will mark the return of Bluebaggers to IKON Park. 

The Blues will back up that aforementioned session once again the following week on Friday 28 January: the last day of school holidays.

“For much of the last two years, we have been unable to be together as one football club, be it at home games or at our spiritual home IKON Park — I’m sure you would agree that has been a tough pill to swallow for us,” Sayers said.

“It will start from next month on Sunday 9 January, where the doors to IKON Park will open once again when we host Collingwood for our Round 1 AFLW season opener. Our first home game in front of our members in 183 days — what a moment it will be. 

“Then, less than two weeks later, I am excited to be the first to let you know that AFL open training will be back, exclusively for members.
“Friday 21 January, put it in your calendar now. This will be your chance to see ‘Vossy’ and the players going to work on their preparations for the 2022 season.

“Our home at IKON Park will look a lot different to the last time you were there. You will be able to see Stage 2 of the redevelopment in full swing and on track for completing in the second half of next year, which will take the fan experience at our spiritual ground to a level unmatched in Australian sport.”

Carlton members, for the full email from the President yesterday, make sure to check your inbox!