LUKE Parks will remain part of the Carlton family after signing on with the Carlton Reserves for 2023.

Parks was selected by Carlton in the 2021 NAB AFL Rookie Draft and played a total of eight senior games for the Blues across two seasons.

The 21-year-old suffered a bone stress injury in his foot which sidelined him for majority of the 2022 season but has shown that when fit, he can make an impact in defence.

He showed how valuable he could be in the backline in the Round 3 VFL game against Gold Coast with 20 disposals (15 of those kicks) and eight marks before his season was cut short.

VFL coach Luke Power said Parks’ hunger to succeed and willingness to invest in his development are behaviours that become infectious throughout the entire program.

“Luke had some bad luck through injury this year, but we were really impressed with how he handled his rehab and are confident he will be ready for the 2023 VFL season,” Power said.

“Being able to sign Luke shows that he believes in the direction the VFL side is heading, and he already has a head start after being immersed in the AFL program for the past two seasons.

“He has been able to build strong connections at the Club during his time with the senior side which will put him in good stead with our VFL and AFL programs working so closely throughout the year.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how Luke can continue to grow as a player and expand his development, and we’re excited to have him on board for another year at Carlton.”